Energy Efficiency in Manufactured Homes: How You Can Maximize Savings
Manufactured homes have come a long way. Gone are the days when they were considered inferior to traditional stick-built homes.
Today’s manufactured homes offer the same comforts, aesthetics, and durability as traditional homes.
As people reevaluate their housing options, more people are turning to manufactured homes as a viable alternative.
However, there’s a perception that manufactured homes are not energy-efficient. This couldn’t be farther from the truth.
In this blog post, we’ll explore how you can maximize energy efficiency in your manufactured home to save money on utility bills.
Insulation
The first step to maximizing energy efficiency in your manufactured home is to ensure that you have adequate insulation.
If your home was built before 1976, it may not have been constructed to the same standards as today’s homes.
However, even modern homes can lack proper insulation. Insulation isn’t the most glamorous home improvement project, but it’s one of the most important.
Proper insulation keeps your home warm in winter and cool in summer. It reduces your dependence on heating and cooling appliances, which in turn, saves you money on utility bills.
You can add insulation to your manufactured home’s attic, walls, and underbelly. You can also look into adding storm windows and doors to further prevent heat loss.
Lighting
Lighting can make a big difference in your monthly electricity bill.
If you’re still using incandescent light bulbs, you’re wasting money. LED bulbs use 75% less energy and last 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs. They may be more expensive upfront, but they pay for themselves in the long run.
Additionally, you can opt for motion sensor lights so that you only use electricity when needed. You can also make use of natural light by opening blinds and curtains during the day.
Appliances
Like lighting, old appliances can be energy hogs.
If you have an older refrigerator, for example, you may be using 10-20% more energy than you need to.
Modern appliances are far more energy-efficient than their older counterparts and come with an Energy Star rating. When shopping for new appliances, look for the Energy Star label.
Also, consider downsizing your appliances to suit your needs. A family of two doesn’t need a massive fridge or dishwasher.
Heating and Cooling
Your manufactured home’s HVAC system is responsible for a significant portion of your utility bill.
You can reduce your heating and cooling costs by keeping your home at the right temperature. Set your thermostat to 68 degrees in winter and 78 degrees in summer.
You can also make use of fans to circulate air and reduce the burden on your HVAC system. Additionally, have your HVAC system serviced regularly to ensure it’s running efficiently.
Solar Energy
Lastly, consider investing in solar energy.
With the cost of solar panels dropping, they have become a viable option for homeowners. Solar panels generate electricity that you can use to power your home.
You can also sell excess energy back to the grid, offsetting the cost of energy you consume. Installing solar panels isn’t cheap, but it pays for itself in the long run.
With proper maintenance, solar panels can last up to 25 years.
Final Thoughts
Manufactured homes offer a great value proposition for those who are looking for affordable and quality housing.
However, they can be energy inefficient if not constructed or maintained properly.
By following the tips outlined in this blog post, you can maximize energy efficiency in your manufactured home and save money on utility bills. From insulation to appliances to solar energy, there are many ways to reduce energy consumption and make your home more sustainable.
About the Author
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