Over the past few years, there’s been a greater focus on energy efficiency and sustainability in San Diego, CA. More residents have been following home construction and design practices that curtail environmental impact without affecting the property’s aesthetic and functionality.
Here’s what you need to create an energy-efficient home in this bustling SoCal metropolis.
GOOD INSULATION
Spray foam insulation is a popular choice among San Diego homeowners for its energy-saving properties. It can cover every crevice of the property, creating an air and moisture barrier that can reduce heating and cooling costs.
Attic floor joists, exterior walls, and above-ground foundation walls are among the many parts of a house that require insulation. Sealing these areas will not only help you conserve energy but also minimize street noise and boost property values.
UPGRADED HVAC UNIT
Outdated HVAC systems are usually less energy efficient due to their outmoded builds and weakened functions. Newer models with advanced technologies perform better and are more power-saving.
When shopping for a new HVAC unit, opt for a model with a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating of at least 14 or higher. This guarantees that the unit consumes less energy to cool down a home, leading to a lower electric bill and a smaller carbon footprint.
SOLAR PANELS
More San Diegans have been installing solar systems on their properties recently. Aside from supporting a more sustainable lifestyle, solar panels can help you save up to $1,500 annually on electricity. Solar panel systems have an expected lifespan of 25 to 30 years, so you can see savings of up to $33,000.
ENERGY STAR APPLIANCES
Most properties in San Diego, including homes for sale in the market, are equipped with ENERGY STAR appliances that use less energy than the standard ones. These products have met a set of energy efficiency criteria designed and enforced by the U.S. Department of Energy or the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to minimize greenhouse gas emissions.
SHADED YARD
Carefully designed landscaping can help cool down a home and lower its energy consumption. Trees planted around the property can provide shade that blocks excessive sunlight and keep you from cranking up the AC during warm days. Landscaping, specifically with native and drought-tolerant plants, can also support the area’s ecosystem and reduce your water consumption.
DETAILED ENERGY AUDIT
Also known as home energy assessments, an energy audit will give you an idea about your property’s energy use, safety, and comfort. These reports can guide you in creating an energy-efficient home by highlighting concerns such as leaks, heating and cooling issues, and dated appliances and recommending ways to address them.
SMALL YET SIGNIFICANT PRACTICES
Making simple changes at home is enough to make it more energy-saving. Instead of turning up the AC on a hot day, you can use curtains, blinds, and other window coverings to block the sunlight from entering your property. Opening a few windows and letting the breeze in is another great way to cool off during the summer. You can also reduce heat loss by wrapping water heaters in insulated blankets.
For home sellers, making the property more energy efficient is a brilliant way to attract buyers. But beyond this, I, local Realtor Michael Jacobo, have a few more tricks to share to help you reach more prospects and draw in great deals.
Reach out today by calling me at 760.632.8900 or send me an email here to get started.