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When building a new home, there’s an endless list of potential features. It’s important to factor in the long-term costs associated with the features you choose. This list shows you 4 of the home features that pay for themselves with energy savings over time.
Smart Thermostat
Whether it’s a Nest , Ecobee, or another option, allowing your smart thermostat to regulate and optimize your HVAC system based on your habits is far superior to using old technology thermostats. These Wi-Fi enabled smart-thermostats can learn your schedule and temperature preferences to add comfort, convenience, and cost-savings to your life.
High Efficiency Furnace & Air Conditioner
Click on Image to Access “Energy Savings Calculator”
Much like the smart thermostat, using a high-efficiency furnace and air conditioner will both save money and make your home more comfortable. At Cypress Homes, we generally install furnaces with an annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) of 95%. According to “Wisconsin Focus On Energy” Furnaces with an AFUE of at least 90% can save you $80–$380 per year in furnace electricity costs. You’ll save the most if you switch your furnace fan to “auto.” This correlates to thousands in savings over the life of the furnace.
LED Bulbs
“Did you know that lighting accounts for about 20% of the average home’s electric bill. LED bulbs use up to 90% less energy and can last up to 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs” (Focus on Energy). Up front these bulbs cost more than traditional or CFL bulbs, but the energy savings and longevity of LED’s will make up for the initial investment.
Upgraded Attic Insulation
Most heat in your home is lost through the ceiling of your home so adding additional insulation in the attic is by far the most effective area to help increase your home’s efficiency. Cypress uses R50 insulation in attics which is more efficient than the standard R38.
An attic seal package takes things up a notch. The spray foam used in attic seal packages closes off all penetrations where heat might escape from your home.
