Today, most American households utilize some form of heating system, whether it is an air conditioner or a thermostat. It’s an essential part of coping up with the changes in the weather. That’s why it’s difficult even to consider reducing the use of heating systems, even if you’re planning on saving energy.
Luckily, modern technology has developed new alternatives to your usual heating devices. There are new home equipment and installations today that do a better job retaining heat while using up less energy. Consider making a few changes to your home by incorporating these energy-sufficient materials and structures.
Low-E Windows
Lower emission or Low-E windows are high-performance windows for insulation. For a price that is slightly higher than glass, you can get a material that better adapts to changes in the weather while also significantly reducing infrared radiation that passes through.
It prevents infrared light from getting inside the room, which then limits the amount of heat that can enter during summer. A thin metallic coating covers the area of the Low-E windows, and this is what allows it to trap heat inside. The heat bounces off of the coating, helping it keep rooms warm during the winter.
You need to use less artificial heating and cooling systems, thus reducing the amount of energy you use. While it does block out the sun’s radiation, it is also clear that natural light can enter the room, similar to how glass windows work.
Cool Roof
A cool roof is a special kind of material that reflects more sunlight while absorbing less heat. It follows the same logic as wearing white clothes during summer or having light-colored paint. The light material takes in less heat from the sun and helps maintain the room’s temperature.
It works best with rooms that have light-colored paint because it absorbs less heat. Cool roofs can greatly reduce the temperature of the room by as much as 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Reflective paint and other adjustments to the room can also increase that.
Almost any room can have a cool roof, but many recommend using it for rooms that don’t normally use air conditioning. The light material can also make rooms brighter because it lets in more natural light. That means you also save more by using less electricity for lights.
Radiant Floor
One of the newest advances in housing technology is radiant flooring. It makes use of a special heating system that is installed beneath the floorboards that warm the room. There are different kinds of them, depending on how they are powered. It can be either air-heated, electric, or hydraulic. Radiant floors are often used alongside concrete floors.
Radiant floors are actually 15 percent more efficient than air-forced and baseboard heating systems because no energy is wasted. Unlike a furnace, there is no heat lost in radiant floors, so it is easier to maintain even room temperature throughout. With other heating systems, additional energy needs to be used to reach certain blind spots.
Boiler
If you pair up your radiant floor with a boiler, it can also greatly reduce the amount of energy you use because you would be relying on water. However, boilers in itself are already amazing at saving energy. Since boilers can disperse heat better, that means your radiant floor would spend less time heating it to the desired temperature.
Boilers can also be used in place of a furnace. They are more effective at retaining heat as well as more efficient. Some people use gas boilers, but a more eco-friendly alternative is pairing it with a water buffer tank. These tanks can store water and keep it warm with its insulating material. It can be used to power your boilers without the need for electricity.
The tank itself already uses less energy too because it doesn’t have to reheat the water constantly. On top of that, water is said to be a better thermal conductor than air. That means heat can travel a lot easier and faster through water and water vapors than just through air.
Every year, there is a new technological development in the world that can reduce our energy consumption. It’s a great investment not just because it helps the environment but also because it saves you money and performs a lot better. You don’t even need to make any major changes in your household. All it takes is a few minor renovations, and you can feel the difference. So take the time to consider what to change and add to your home.
