As winter draws near, homeowners often start to think about how to keep their homes warm without seeing their energy bills skyrocket. Luckily, improving your home’s energy efficiency can help you stay cozy while saving money. Plus, with First Seacoast Bank's home improvement loan and equity options, these energy-saving upgrades are more affordable than ever.
Here’s a look at some of the best ways to make your home more energy-efficient as we head into the colder months.
1. Seal Drafts and Insulate
One of the quickest and most cost-effective ways to make your home more energy efficient is to seal any gaps and cracks where cold air might sneak in. Check around doors, windows, and your home’s foundation for drafts, and use weatherstripping or caulk to seal them up.
Upgrading your home’s insulation is another surefire way to keep your energy costs down. By properly insulating your attic, walls, and floors, you can reduce the amount of heat that escapes, keeping your home warmer and reducing your heating system’s workload.
2. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Windows
If your windows are old or single-pane, you might be losing a lot of heat through them. Energy-efficient windows, such as double- or triple-pane options, are designed to minimize heat loss and can make a big difference in your home’s overall efficiency. While this can be a larger investment, the long-term energy savings make it worthwhile.
3. Install a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat allows you to set your heating schedule to match your routine, ensuring you’re not wasting energy when you’re not at home. Some smart thermostats even learn your preferences and make adjustments automatically to maximize your energy savings.
4. Switch to Energy-Efficient Lighting and Appliances
Another way to make your home more energy efficient is to upgrade your lighting and appliances. Energy-efficient LED light bulbs use up to 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and can last 25 times longer. Similarly, Energy Star-rated appliances are designed to use less energy without sacrificing performance, helping you save on your energy bills.
5. Consider Solar Panels
If you’re thinking long-term, installing solar panels is a great way to harness the power of renewable energy. Not only can solar panels reduce your reliance on traditional energy sources, but they may also lead to significant savings on your utility bills. While the upfront cost can be substantial, First Seacoast Bank offers home equity loan options that can help you finance the installation, allowing you to pay it off over time as you enjoy the benefits.
Financing Your Energy-Efficient Upgrades with FSB
At First Seacoast Bank, we understand that investing in energy-efficient home improvements can be daunting, but we’re here to help. Our home improvement loans and home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) provide affordable financing options that make it easier to go green. These financing solutions can help you cover the upfront costs of upgrades like insulation, windows, or solar panels, and over time, you’ll see savings that can offset the initial investment.
Save Green by Going Green
Not only do energy-efficient upgrades make your home more comfortable, but they can also save you money on your energy bills—potentially even increasing the value of your home. And with the financing options available at First Seacoast Bank, these improvements are within reach.
Ready to start saving? Contact us today to learn more about our home improvement loan and equity options and take the first step toward a more energy-efficient home this winter.
