Energy Efficiency Tips

Here's are some energy saving tips from our friends at the Austin Board of Realtors:

I have a couple of additional thoughts on this one:

• If your house needs it, add insulation.  For example, if you live in an older house (like I do) then there may be some advances in insulation from which you can benefit.  We had more put in our attic this year, and now that Austin is warming up I can tell the difference.  After the virus situation abates, we'll probably have more put in under the house.
• If you've recently moved into an older house, check door seals and windows.  You may be losing cold air.
• Get you ducts checked and cleaned.  Also, check the condenser and make sure the coils are clean.
• If you are considering a smart thermostat or lighting system, read up on the company's data and privacy policies.  Also, look into how said company has handled support for older systems (is there a long tail, or do they tend to deactivate units?).  
• If you don't want the oven to heat up your kitchen, you don't have to resort to microwaving your food.  Toaster ovens are great, and I use mine year-round when I want to cook something too small to merit heating up the regular oven.   Also, you can always go outside and grill.   
• Investigate options for solar panels and available rebates.
• Investigate rebates for installing more energy efficient air conditioning units (e.g., Austin Energy has a rebate program).

In addition to my points above, visit Austin Energy to learn more about making your home more efficient.