Maximizing Efficiency with Home Electrical Upgrades

The Energy Star rating judges how energy-efficient home appliances are within their category

Electrical systems have been a staple in homes for well over a century. Minor or major upgrades can make the systems more efficient and user-friendly. 

Here are some electrical upgrades that can maximize the energy performance of any property:

Energy-efficient appliances

The Energy Star rating judges how energy-efficient home appliances are within their category. While this system isn’t ideal, it lets buyers compare devices of the same category. Replace older appliances with Energy Star-rated models to conserve energy and lower electricity bills.

LED lights

LED lights are more efficient and emit less heat than incandescent or fluorescent bulbs. Furthermore, these fluorescent bulbs aren’t always the most color-accurate, and cheaper bulbs may not last as long or look as good. However, high-quality LEDs can look as good as an incandescent bulb but use significantly less power. For example, an LED bulb rated as a 60-watt incandescent equivalent might only use 4 watts at a time.

Internet of Things

Certain Internet of Things (IoT) appliances can make the house more energy-efficient. For example, smart thermostats automatically control the heating and cooling and reduce wasted energy when the HVAC system doesn’t need to work (or could work less hard). Smart plugs and switches can monitor energy usage and let users control and turn them off remotely.

Electrical panel upgrades

Outdated electrical panels can also contribute to inefficiency. Therefore, upgrading the panel can safely accommodate higher electrical loads in an increasingly electricity-dependent home. Please remember that a professional should always install an electrical panel to handle the capacity for new appliances and devices. 

Solar power

Solar power can make the house more energy-efficient and even energy-independent in the right circumstances. If the house gets enough sunlight to generate energy that covers the maximum load, one can store it in batteries for later use or sell it back to the grid. Plus, government incentives exist to encourage homeowners to go green through solar.

Insulation

Insulation also conserves energy. While it doesn’t directly save electricity, it does affect how well the heating and cooling system performs. When the house is well-insulated, the heating and cooling systems don’t have to work as hard, wasting electricity and other resources. Consequently, the entire home’s energy system will benefit, and both the HVAC utility and electricity bills will be lower.

Follow the best practices

While it might be initially costly to upgrade electrical systems at home for energy efficiency, the upgrades pay for themselves over time through lower bills. Furthermore, being more energy-efficient saves the planet by wasting fewer resources. If homeowners wish to upgrade, they should consult a local electrician for advice and a quote.
When you need a licensed electrician for commercial or residential electrical needs, call Zimmerman Electric at 310-378-1323.