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December 6, 2022Omaha, Nebraska is one of the best places in the Midwest to live, especially for families with children. Property prices in Nebraska are affordable, and there are many great reasons to be here. However, if you live in Nebraska, then you could be wasting energy during the cold months. Nebraska’s weather may make you think about how you can make your home more energy efficient.
Nebraska Weather & Making Your Home More Energy Efficient
It takes a lot of resources to warm up the average home, and there are plenty of things that you can do in (and around) the house to save money on your heating and cooling. For example, adding insulation and installing new windows and doors can make your home more energy efficient.
Here’s your quick guide to creating an energy-efficient home in Nebraska.
Nebraska Weather
Whether you grew up in Nebraska or have lived in the state for a few years, you know it’s imperative that you check the weather report every day. While websites like Accuweather or the Weather Channel can make sure that you’re updated on what the weather is going to be today, tomorrow, or weeks from now, Nebraska weather oftentimes has a mind of its own.
One thing we all know well, however, is that winter in Nebraska is often cold and snowy. This can leave your heating system in need of repair or replacement if you fail to take action. Don’t let a Nebraska winter fool you.
Take proper action to make your home more energy efficient before it’s too late. A professional can do an energy audit to help you decide which steps you can take to improve the efficiency of your home.
Energy-Efficient Omaha Home
If you’re on the quest to make your home more energy efficient before winter weather arrives, know that it doesn’t always require a large budget. Small changes can make a huge difference in reducing your energy consumption this winter.
Here are some options for you:
1. Carpets Over Tiles
Having tiles in a home isn’t just about the look, but also about the feel. Tiles can reflect cold, therefore, tiling throughout most of your home or in large rooms will cool the space down naturally. Of course, this is not ideal in cold winter weather conditions!
- Choose carpets over tiles if you have the budget to make this choice.
- If you have a smaller budget, solve the problem with loose carpets or rugs instead.
2. Curtains Over Blinds
Blinds and uncovered windows are prone to letting a lot of cold air through, and as a result, increase your heating bill. To limit the amount of cold air coming from your windows, opt for curtains over blinds. Thick curtains are the best option to help combat harsh Nebraska winter weather.
Installing new, thick curtains is a cheap way to stop the heat from escaping your home.
3. Use Energy Efficient Appliances
Old appliances can be some of the least energy-efficient items in the entire house. Make a list of all of the old, electricity guzzlers you might be running in your home. This includes your out-of-date water heater which according to the United States Department of Energy uses about 18 percent of your electricity costs. Calculate the cost of replacing the appliances that are consuming the most energy.
Modern appliances aren’t just designed to be smaller (and lighter) than the ones your grandparents had, they’re also made to reduce and save on energy costs.
You don’t have to replace all of your appliances at once. However, don’t underestimate the difference that two or three newer appliances can make to your energy bill every year.
4. Convert the Lights
Inspect the lights in your home. Many types of lights often take up more energy than you would expect. Convert the lights (specifically, the light bulbs) to energy-efficient types. This small change alone can end up saving you hundreds of dollars every year.
Safety note: Make sure that the light fixture matches the strength of the new lightbulb you are installing. If the two measurements don’t line up, it’s a fire risk that most people do not realize they are creating.
Are you not sure if the lightbulb and light fixture are a match? Employ an electrician. Sure, it’s an added expense, but it’s safer than the potential of a house fire.
5. New Windows and Doors
There are many benefits to installing new windows and doors. Although window and door replacement isn’t the cheapest option on the list, the energy savings and value added to your home can be well worth the investment. If you have older windows or drafty windows, you are dealing with heat loss for sure. It’s time to strongly consider replacing your home windows.
Learn about Energy Programs: Department of Energy Statistics in Nebraska
North Country Windows & Baths in Lincoln, NE, and the Surrounding Areas
At North Country Windows & Baths, our Windows are backed by a Lifetime Warranty giving our customers peace of mind. Each window is custom-made to fit your home with state-of-the-art engineering by design, and energy efficiency enhanced by style. Our windows are made to last for years of maintenance-free beauty.
Whether you want a soaker tub surrounded by subway tile or a low threshold shower with granite-like walls, you can customize your BathWraps space and even add accessories like soap dishes, caddies, seating, grab bars, and more Contact us today.