Colorado is a haven for those who love slow living. The U.S. state is blessed with the wonders of natural beauty and wildlife. But there’s one catch: the weather can be extreme year-round. With its proximity to the Rocky Mountains, the terrain of this state is elevated and can experience snowy winters and lower humidity.
For homeowners in this region, cold winters and sunny high-altitude summers are nothing new. Likewise, this is not something your HVAC system might enjoy. So, what are some of the best ways to bring the energy costs under control without having to say goodbye to comfort? This blog will offer energy efficiency options like picture windows in Colorado homes, so read on to learn more.
Never Compromise on Insulation
If you fail in this aspect, your Colorado home might not get as cozy as you expect. Adequate insulation will help regulate your indoor temperature irrespective of the outdoor weather. It keeps warm air inside during the winter and blocks heat from entering in the summer. Meanwhile, many older homes in Colorado lack this feature, resulting in drafts and heat loss.
To solve this issue, you can upgrade your attic, walls, and crawl spaces with high-quality insulating materials. For those hard-to-reach spaces, you can opt for spray foam or blown-in insulation. This way, you can save on heating and cooling expenses.
Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances and Fixtures
If you still use outdated appliances, it may be time to replace them. Unlike these, newer appliances and fixtures are built to consume less electricity. So, when renovating or building, choose Energy Star-rated appliances for your kitchen and laundry room. These can perform their maximum at minimal electricity use.
Likewise, choose newer models of water heaters and HVAC systems, as these are the ones that consume more energy compared to other appliances. Upgrade your water heater and HVAC system to newer, high-efficiency options. Make sure you switch to LED lighting, as they, too, can contribute significantly.
Utilize Natural Light With Picture Windows
Installing large windows is a wonderful way to light up your home. Meanwhile, they can also offer design benefits. Picture windows in Colorado homes are a popular trend among homeowners as they help with indoor lighting and energy efficiency. These windows are fixed and do not open, which makes them more airtight than other styles.
Since Colorado is blessed with many sunny days each year, these windows can help warm up your indoor space during the colder months. Additionally, high-quality, double- or triple-pane glass with low-E coatings blocks UV rays while allowing light to pass through. Also, just be sure to pair them with shades or blinds for hot summer days to prevent overheating.
See also: How Professional Pest Control Protects Homes in Chelmsford
Switch to Smart Thermostats
This is a small step that will lead to bigger leaps in terms of savings. Smart thermostats can learn your daily routine and adjust the indoor temperature accordingly. They can also be controlled remotely; you just need to install their application on your phone. Colorado’s temperature swings can be dramatic, so a responsive system helps keep your home comfortable while minimizing energy waste.
Add Landscaping That Supports Energy Savings
You might think that all landscaping does is beautify your property and improve its curb appeal. But, in turn, it plays an integral part in regulating indoor temperature. You might want to plant deciduous trees on the south and west sides of your home. In summer, the leaves provide shade, keeping your home cooler. In winter, bare branches let sunlight through, naturally warming your interior. Shrubs and windbreaks can also reduce cold winds that hit your exterior walls.
Remember to Seal Windows and Doors Properly
Even the best windows and doors won’t do much if they’re not correctly sealed. These small gaps will let the outdoor air in during summer and winter, resulting in your HVAC system having to work harder. This, obviously, adds up to higher costs. So, check the weather stripping around doors and use caulk to seal gaps around window frames. Regular maintenance ensures your home stays airtight. If you notice recurring drafts, it might be time for an upgrade.
Wise home design and appliance choices can cut down a lot on your energy costs. Each upgrade mentioned above helps you create a comfortable indoor environment without spending too much on electricity. The money they save will cover the initial cost of installing them in a few years or even a couple of months. With minor improvements and significant savings, your home will be ready for whatever the Rocky Mountain weather brings.
