Buying a fixer-upper is a cost-effective way to get your dream home. However, everything from its insulation to the HVAC equipment can be outdated. Here are some some things to consider to make the property more modern and energy-efficient.  The combination of all of these is necessary because they tend to work together to make your home more comfortable regardless of the season.

What to Update When You Buy a Fixer-Upper

1. Windows

Single-paned windows are more prone to heat loss. Drafts can also occur around old window frames. The more air that seeps out of the house, the higher your energy bills are.

Replace wooden frames with vinyl ones, which are less likely to develop leaks. By upgrading to double- or triple-paned glass, you also make the fixtures more energy-efficient. There are even panes with special coatings that block much of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, keeping your home cooler in the summer.

Windows generally contribute up to 12-15% of the energy loss so be sure to prioritize spending if money is a little tight.

2. HVAC System

Modern HVAC systems are designed to consume less power without compromising performance. If the heating and cooling equipment in the home is over 15 years old, upgrading will help you save on monthly costs.

Installing a programmable thermostat is also beneficial. The unit comes with pre-set temperatures to reduce energy usage and allows you to remotely maintain the desired climate, even if no one is home. 

3. Insulation

Insulation is needed to keep warmth indoors during the winter and prevent heat from affecting your space in the summer. Many older homes have uneven temperatures due to insufficient insulation.  Attics in this part of the country need 16”-20” to absorb the heat.  If you are well below that depth then you need to add more to make your home more comfortable and energy efficient.

The attic can potentially be the single largest contributor to energy loss (nearly 50%) so be sure to set aside the appropriate funding to make this home improvement.  A new energy efficient HVAC system can run constantly if your attic insulation is improper.  By adding new material to the attic, transition walls, and crawlspaces, you can prevent indoor air from seeping out.

Make your home more energy-efficient by reaching out to the team at All Season Insulation, LLC for quality insulation. Based in Cincinnati, OH, they serve clients throughout the Northern Kentucky and Dayton area. Specializing in Owens Corning PINK® Fiberglass™ insulation, they offer quick turnaround times to get your home ready as soon as possible. Schedule a free estimate by calling (513) 316-­7622, or visit them online for more information about their work.