At Shine, we take a holistic approach to home energy efficiency by including it with every solar panel system we install when applicable. Why? Because making your home more energy efficient reduces your consumption, therefore requiring fewer solar panels to be installed. It also makes your solar system operate more effectively. So, it saves you money in two ways.
What energy efficient upgrades does Shine provide?
If you’re a candidate and your solar package includes energy efficiency, the first thing we will do is replace all the lighting in your home with high-efficiency LED lights. LEDs come in many different shapes, temperatures and brightness levels. They also use 90% less energy and last 15-20 times longer than old incandescent bulbs. This is one of the quickest ways to make a dent in your energy consumption.
The next area we focus on when assessing your home’s energy efficiency is the attic. Unfortunately, most homes in the U.S., even new homes, only contain the minimum amount of insulation that building codes require. While this may appear to get the job done, it often leaves homeowners with a higher electric bill because it’s not enough. And, if you own an older home, or even a newer one, chances are the insulation you currently have has settled and is no longer as efficient as it once was.
This, combined with air leaks in your roofline and other places, create a giant vacuum that sucks much of the conditioned air out of your home, both during the summer and winter. By adding the right amount of insulation, it can eliminate the air leaks in your attic allowing Shine to greatly reduce your home’s energy requirements while making you more comfortable.
In addition, Shine also assesses the efficiency of your heating and cooling system. According to the US Department of Energy, heating and cooling make up approximately 35%-40% of your entire home’s energy use. Installing a high efficiency heating and cooling system can reduce your energy bills by up to 40%.
Once the assessment is complete, our experts will recommend either an optimization strategy or replacement of your existing system. This is recommendation is determined by several factors including age, tonnage, efficiency, square footage of your home, heat gain and loss calculations and regional energy requirements.
Should you need a new high-efficiency heating and cooling system, Shine can provide one through its Shine Air division of professionally trained and certified HVAC installers. Shine Air carries a complete line of systems to choose from depending on your fuel source and requirements, whether it’s a gas furnace, heat pump or dual fuel system, we have it. Our experts will help you pick the right system for your needs.
Do I have to purchase a solar panel system from Shine to take advantage of your HVAC and energy efficiency services?
No! If you would like to purchase a high-efficiency HVAC system, you can do so separately without the purchase of a solar panel system. All our systems come with a home energy efficiency upgrade included in the price to maximize your energy savings and get the most out of your investment. Just give us a call at (844)807-4463 and we will be happy to set up a time to work with you.
What are some other things I can do to make my home more energy efficient?
As a homeowner, there are many things you can do to be proactive and increase the energy efficiency of your home. Here are just a few that will have a noticeable impact:
· Install a programmable thermostat (if you haven’t upgraded your HVAC system through Shine Air).
· Regularly change the air filter on your heating and air system.
· Caulk and seal any air leaks around doors, windows, plumbing and ducting.
· Install foam gaskets behind outlet and switch plates on walls.
· Be sure your fireplace damper is closed when not in use.
· Purchase Energy Star appliances and electronics.
For more tips and information about making your home more energy efficient, we recommend downloading Shine Solar's Energy Guide. Written for homeowners, this free resource provides you with all the information you need about how to become more energy efficient and save money, both in and out of your home.
