How to Save Energy and Save Money in Your First Home

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First time home buyers often need a little extra help when it comes to maintenance and design in that first home. Today we're looking at some design ideas to help save cash. Who doesn't love saving money? The great thing about this list is that it's essentially a do-it-yourself how-to manual. DIY home improvements that save you money...a win-win situation!

The following are some ideas on how to save energy and cut your utility bills with air conditioning:

• Ceiling fans can be used along with air conditioning. This allows for higher temperatures than regular comfort.
• Sizing of air conditioning system is very important and has to be proportional to space and people requirements. There are many instances where a window unit performs the function, and so the central AC is oversized. Replacement of an existing central system may be energy efficient in certain cases.
• Usage of permanent filters, preferably MERV 13 filters, enhances the indoor air quality and reduces the energy load more than an otherwise dirty filter.
• Usage of electronic programmable thermostats, and reduction in the heat generation from lighting through usage of compact fluorescent bulbs can reduce the air conditioning's load.
• Extruded polystyrene insulation, shading from trees, fewer hardscapes, green roofs, and locating condensers in a shaded area can help to reduce the demand for energy.
• The solar heat gain coefficient and U-value of window glazing is important for reducing cooling loads.
• Evaporative cooling and heat recovery are other energy efficient strategies that could be evaluated.
• Keeping the condensing coil clean, will ensure the unit if running at maximum efficiency.
• Seal house with caulk and weatherstripping in appropriate areas.
• Proper attic ventilation is also key to cooling properly and less load on the AC unit.

This is a guest post from Dan Malin of Prairie State Inspections. With nearly 30 years experience in construction, Dan is well versed in what works and what doesn't work in home maintenance. Dan is also a certified HUD FHA 203k consultant.

If you'd like more information on do-it-yourself remodeling and design ideas, download "DIY Home Improvements: The Ultimate Pinterest Guide" at the button below.

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