Home Insurance for Homeowners and Landlords
August 14, 2023
Mortgage Closing Disclosure
August 25, 2023
Homeowners are looking into alternative home heating and cooling options as energy costs increase. Homeowners are seeking systems to reduce environmental impact and lower their energy bills. Many available tax credits help to finance the energy efficient upgrades.
Thee latest alternative home heating and cooling options that are both eco-friendly and cost-effective are the goals of all homeowners.
HOME HEATING OPTIONS
In 2023, homeowners paid an average of $1,162 in winter heating bills. Switching to energy efficient alternatives can substantially reduce energy bills.
Solar Heating Systems
Solar panels aren’t the only way to turn UV rays into energy. While panels produce electricity, solar collectors gather heat energy and transfer it to water or antifreeze. You can use this energy to heat water or transfer it to a central heating system.
Geothermal Heat Pumps
Shallow ground typically has a temperature of 50 to 60°F. Geothermal heat pumps use ground heat exchanger technology to get warm air from the ground. In the summer, underground air naturally cools your home.
Geothermal heat is catching on with a market that grow by 9.6% before 2029.
Biomass Systems
Save money by replacing fossil fuels with a sustainable alternative. Biomass systems can burn wood pellets, agricultural waste, and more.
A biomass stove can heat a single room. You can also replace your water heater with a back boiler.
COOLING OPTIONS
If you’re tired of spending time and money preparing your AC for summer, consider that air conditioning accounts for 6% of all energy produced in the US. You may find these alternative cooling options are more efficient for your home, cost-effective, and environmentally impactful.
Evaporative Coolers
Evaporative or swamp coolers are more effective than traditional AC units. Warm air passes over pads saturated with water, causing water and heat to evaporate. These coolers work well in places with low humidity.
Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioners
Ductless mini-splits are a flexible solution. Each mini-split controls the temperature in a specific room or zone. Each unit has its own thermostat, allowing you to save money by only keeping some rooms cool.
Whole-House Fans and Natural Ventilation
A whole-house fan can draw hot air from your home via attic vents while sucking cool air into your living space. This system improves your home’s indoor air quality while using naturally cool air to keep your home comfortable.
TIPS FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY
There are a few simple steps you can take to reduce your energy bills and environmental footprint:
- Proper insulation in your attic, floors, and wood-framed walls can reduce heating and cooling costs by 15% on average. Sealing doors and windows can also help.
- Address common HVAC issues like clogged filters or dirty coils with regular maintenance. Keeping this system in good shape increases its energy efficiency.
- Upgrading your home with Energy Star appliances.
- Smart thermostats promote energy efficiency and can give you more control over your energy consumption through scheduling.
FINANCING ENERGY EFFICIENT UPGRADES
Alternative heating and cooling options come with an upfront cost. Your preferred Mortgage Company can help you build a more eco-friendly and comfortable living space with financing options like renovation loans and home equity products.
Whether you’re looking to buy, sell or refinance your home, HDA Insurance Brokerage is available to insure your new property; whether an owner-occupied home or a tenant-occupied rental unit. You may obtain a FREE Home Insurance Quote Online when you’re ready.
