8 Energy-saving House Renovations to Do this Summer

Installing solar panels in your home is just one of the ways you can save on the cost of energy this summer. 

Installing solar panels in your home is just one of the ways you can save on the cost of energy this summer. 

It shouldn’t come as much of a surprise that the average homeowner in the Okanagan spends a lot of money cooling their home during the summer months. You can offset that cost with house renovation costs. It sounds counterintuitive, but it’s true.  

Instead of dumping money into cooling your home this summer, invest in one (or all) of these energy-saving renovations and watch your energy bills drop.

 

1. Insulate the Attic

If you find your home heats up quickly during the summer months, you may not have adequate insulation in your attic. Before you start this project, though, you may want to consult with a Kelowna renovation company first. They can take a look for you and let you know what you need to do.

 

2. Replace the Roof

If your home is more than 20 years old, it’s probably time to replace the roof. When upgrading your roof, install light-coloured shingles that reflect light and heat away from the home. Pair this with a properly insulated attic, and you may forget you need to turn the air conditioner on!

 

3. Consider Solar Panels 

Solar panels may seem like a substantial investment, but they will save you money in the long run. With 304 annual days of sun in Kelowna, solar panels will make a big dent in your energy bills.

 

4. Seek Out Ceiling Fans

While some people dislike the look of ceiling fans, they’re a really small and affordable way to reduce the energy bill of your home. A ceiling fan can reduce the heat in your home by four degrees!  

 

5. Look at the Windows

Your windows may be letting the cool air out and the warm air in, especially if your home is older. A professional general contractor can let you know if there’s anything you can do to stop the leaks or if your windows will need to be replaced.

 

6. Check the Doors

Just like windows, the doors in your home may be reducing the energy efficiency of your home. If your door is older or doesn’t appear to close completely, consider replacing them with energy-efficient doors. However, if you’re looking for a renovation that’s a little more budget-friendly, weatherstripping will likely do the trick.

 

7. Lean into Landscaping

Trees and foliage can add shade and help keep a home cool. While it may take a few years for the trees to be tall enough to block the rays of the sun from the windows, it’s an investment that will significantly pay off in the coming years.

 

8. Replace Old Appliances

If your heating and cooling systems are dated, they may not be very energy efficient. Start by installing a smart or programmable thermostat. If you don’t see much of a reduction on your bills, you may want to consider upgrading the HVAC system altogether. Investing in energy-efficient heating and cooling systems can drastically reduce utility usage. That means cheaper bills for you.

 

While digging into these renovations, you may find other issues pop up, especially if you own an older home. Our previous blog touches on some of those other issues: The 7 Biggest Challenges to Overcome During Old Home Restorations.

 

Ready to get started on some of these energy-saving renovations? Reach out to the professionals at Rafter 4K Contracting. After almost three decades in the industry, we pride ourselves on ensuring every project is carried out flawlessly. From new construction to home improvements, we handle it all. 

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