As winter approaches, homeowners in Oklahoma face the challenge of keeping their homes warm without inflating energy bills. Maximizing energy efficiency is essential for comfort, long-term cost savings, and property value enhancement. If you’re a homeowner preparing to buy or sell a property, these steps can help you create a more energy-efficient home that appeals to buyers.
Read on for some practical tips to winterize your home (and one to avoid!) while keeping energy consumption—and costs—low.
Why Energy Efficiency Matters
Energy efficiency is more than just a buzzword; it’s a smart approach to homeownership that benefits both your wallet and the environment. Here’s why it should be a top priority for Oklahoma homeowners:
- Save Money: By improving your home’s energy efficiency, you can significantly lower your heating bills during the cold Oklahoma winters.
- Increased Home Value: Energy-efficient homes are increasingly attractive to buyers, potentially increasing your property’s value when it’s time to sell.
- Enhanced Comfort: A well-insulated home with efficient heating keeps temperatures stable, making your home more comfortable all season.
- Environmental Impact: Reducing energy consumption helps contribute to a more sustainable future (which is also easier on your wallet).
- Long-term Savings: While some energy-efficient upgrades may require an initial investment, they often pay for themselves through long-term energy savings.
How to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient
Here are some simple yet effective ways to winterize your Oklahoma home and enhance energy efficiency:
Seal Windows and Doors
One of the quickest ways to prevent heat loss is by sealing windows and doors. Oklahoma’s winters can be chilly; drafts around windows and doors can lead to significant energy waste.
- Install weatherstripping around doors and windows to prevent drafts.
- Apply caulk to seal any gaps or cracks around window and door frames.
- Consider installing storm windows for an extra layer of insulation.
Optimize Your Heating System
Regular maintenance of your heating and cooling system is crucial for energy efficiency.
- Have a professional inspect your HVAC system inspection before the cold season hits to prevent costly breakdowns.
- Dirty filters make your HVAC system work harder, increasing energy consumption. Replace filters every 1-3 months.
- Consider upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace if your current system is over 15 years old.
Improve Insulation
If your home’s insulation is outdated, it’s time to upgrade. Proper insulation in your attic and walls can drastically cut down on energy loss, keeping your home warmer for longer.
- Heat rises, and much of it escapes through the roof without proper insulation. Add or upgrade the insulation in your attic to prevent hot air from escaping.
- Insulate walls, especially in older homes, that may not meet modern energy standards.
- Remember to insulate your basement or crawl space to prevent heat loss through the floor.
Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Lighting
Switching to energy-efficient light bulbs is a small yet impactful change. Light-emitting diode (LED) and compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs) use significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last much longer.
- LED bulbs use up to 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs and can last up to 25 times longer, making them an excellent choice for both indoor and outdoor lighting.
- Compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs) are another energy-saving option, using about 70% less energy than incandescent bulbs while lasting up to 10 times longer. They are more affordable than LEDs but don’t last quite as long.
- Install dimmer switches to further control energy usage, lowering the light levels when full brightness isn’t necessary.
- Consider motion sensors for outdoor lighting to ensure lights are only on when needed.
Invest in a Smart Thermostat
A programmable thermostat allows you to set heating schedules based on when you’re home or away, optimizing energy use and reducing waste.
- Lower the heat when you’re not home. Set your thermostat to 68°F during the day and lower it to 65°F at night or when you’re not home. This simple adjustment can save energy and reduce your heating bill.
- Many smart thermostats learn your habits and automatically adjust for optimal efficiency.
Address Your Water Heater
Your water heater can be a significant source of energy consumption, especially during the colder months. Here’s how to optimize it:
- Insulate your water heater tank to reduce standby heat loss.
- Lower the temperature setting to 120°F for both safety and energy savings.
- Consider upgrading to an energy-efficient model if your current hot water heater is over ten years old.
- Find ways to reduce water consumption by cutting a few minutes from your daily shower.
- Look for Energy Star ratings when replacing appliances, as these are certified to meet or exceed efficiency standards.
Utilize Window Coverings
Strategic use of window coverings can help maintain indoor temperatures.
- Keep curtains and blinds open during sunny days to let in natural warmth.
- Close them at night to provide an extra layer of insulation against the cold.
- Invest in thermal curtains for additional insulation.
Maintain Your Fireplace
If you have a fireplace, ensure it’s not a source of heat loss.
- Keep the damper closed when the fireplace is not in use.
- Install glass doors to prevent warm air from escaping up the chimney.
- Have your chimney inspected and cleaned annually for safety and efficiency.
What Not to Do: Avoid Solar Panels
While energy-efficient upgrades are often a wise investment, solar panels can be an exception.
Homeowners who finance solar panels often face challenges when selling, as potential buyers may be reluctant to take on the associated loans. Homes with solar panels can even lose value if a loan transfer is involved. With installation costs reaching $60,000, it could take decades of saving on your $300 electric bill to see any real return. Ultimately, solar panels might make your home harder to sell, making them a risky energy upgrade.
Why an Energy-Efficient Home Sells Faster
As a homeowner, energy efficiency isn’t just about immediate comfort and savings—it’s also a significant factor in your home’s marketability. Here’s why energy-efficient homes are in high demand in the Oklahoma real estate market:
- Lower Operating Costs: Buyers are increasingly aware of the long-term costs of homeownership. An energy-efficient home promises lower utility bills, making it more attractive to cost-conscious buyers.
- Modern Appeal: Energy-efficient features are often associated with newer, more updated homes. This perception of modernity can be a major selling point.
- Comfort Factor: Homes with good insulation, efficient heating systems, and draft-free windows are simply more comfortable to live in, which is a huge plus for potential buyers.
- Environmental Consciousness: Many buyers today are environmentally conscious and prefer homes with a smaller carbon footprint.
- Potential for Higher Resale Value: As energy costs continue to rise, energy-efficient homes will likely maintain or increase their value more than less efficient homes.
According to the National Association of Realtors, 59% of realtors find that home buyers are interested in sustainability. This trend is particularly relevant in Oklahoma, where extreme weather conditions can lead to high energy bills if homes are ill-prepared.
Oklahoma-Specific Energy Efficiency Considerations
Oklahoma’s climate presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to home energy efficiency:
- Extreme Temperature Fluctuations: Oklahoma experiences both hot summers and cold winters. This makes year-round insulation and efficient HVAC systems particularly important.
- State Incentives: The Oklahoma Department of Commerce offers various energy efficiency incentives. For example, the Home Energy Efficiency Rebate Program provides rebates for energy-efficient upgrades.
- Local Utility Programs: Many Oklahoma utility companies offer energy audit services and rebates for energy-efficient appliances. Check with your local provider for specific programs.
Partnering for Success
Maximizing your home’s energy efficiency is a smart move whether you’re settling in for the long haul or preparing to sell. It ensures a more comfortable living environment, lowers energy bills, and positions your home favorably in the competitive Oklahoma real estate market.
At Homes by Breann, we understand the importance of energy efficiency in today’s real estate landscape. Our team of experienced agents can guide you through the process of making energy-efficient upgrades that will appeal to potential buyers and increase your home’s value. We’re not just here to list your home; we’re here to partner with you in making it the best it can be.
Whether you’re looking to buy an energy-efficient home or sell your property this winter, the Homes by Breann team is your local expert in Oklahoma real estate. Our in-depth knowledge of the Oklahoma market and our commitment to excellence ensure you’ll have a partner who can help you buy or sell the home of your dreams.
Ready to make a move? Contact Homes by Breann today, and let’s work together to maximize your home’s potential in the Oklahoma real estate market.
