When you live in Dallas, TX, you know all about being hot. Even in the fall and sometimes during the winter, you can break a sweat. But the summers are especially miserable. No matter what time of year you’re enduring, you can still feel the summer sun beating down on you. The good news is, there are things you can do to beat that Texas heat. The major task is to make your home more energy efficient. How do you do that? There are a number of ways.
Home Energy Audit
The first thing you might want to do is get a home energy audit from a professional. They will inspect your home and tell you how it compares to energy efficiency levels in every matter. They will also make recommendations for exact steps you can take to make the house more energy efficient. These estimates are free and can help you figure out where you will get the best return on your investments, and where you can make the biggest difference.
Consider Age
Once you have an energy audit, you will want to think about the age of your home and the items inside it. If your house is ten years old or older, there are certain items, like your air conditioner, that might be reaching the end of their efficiency life span. Some things, like insulation, last a lifetime, but appliances will need to be replaced at some point.
New Windows
You might also consider when is it time for new windows? If your windows are on the old side and don’t have good insulation, you can do yourself a huge favor in the energy efficiency department by replacing them. Keeping outside air out and inside air in will help your home become more much comfortable and energy efficient. You will have a nice, fresh look for your house too. If energy efficiency is your goal, don’t be surprised if the home energy audit professional recommends new windows for your Dallas, TX house.
Plant Trees
In order to continue down the path to energy efficiency, it is a good idea to plant trees around your house that will shade your window areas and your home in general. The direct sunlight warms your home and causes the air conditioner to run more. Shade will help cut back on those effects.
Close Blinds
No matter what windows you have, closing your blinds to avoid direct sunlight can cut back on the heat of the day as well. It will keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Getting the right blinds is key to the process, but anything will give you at least a little insulation.
If your energy audit shows that you need new windows, you will be doing a great service to the energy efficient windows Dallas, TX of your home by working with Southwest Door & Window at 214-341-2212. Stop by and see our window products in our showroom at 10255 Miller Rd Dallas, TX 75238.