Energy Efficiency Tips for Older Homes: How UBH Solar Can Help You Save

How to Improve Energy Efficiency in Older Homes with UBH Solar

Older homes are full of charm, character, and history, but they can also come with high energy costs. Many older properties lack the modern insulation and efficient systems that keep new homes energy-efficient, leading to higher utility bills and greater environmental impact. If you own an older home, there are plenty of steps you can take to make it more energy-efficient without sacrificing its unique appeal. Here’s how, with insights from Bob Vila’s guide on energy-efficient upgrades and UBH Solar’s expert services.

Why Older Homes Lose More Energy

Older homes are often built with outdated materials and without the energy-efficient technologies available today. They may have:

Poor Insulation

Many older homes have insufficient or deteriorated insulation, allowing warm or cool air to escape easily. Especially in older homes, insulation was often made from materials that are vastly inferior to their modern day counterparts. Insulation is one of the most affordable and and high impact upgrades you can make to vastly impact your bills.

The EPA estimates that homeowners can save an average of 15% on heating and cooling costs (or an average of 11% on total energy costs) by air sealing their homes.

Aged Windows and Doors

Inefficient windows and doors can cause drafts, leading to higher heating and cooling costs. As windows and doors age, they warp and settle. This can create small openings that allows heat or AC to escape; making your thermostat, and bank account, work overtime to keep up.

Outdated HVAC Systems

Old heating and cooling systems can consume a lot of energy and may not provide consistent comfort. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends replacing your HVAC system every 10–15 years, depending on the type of system: 

• Air conditioners and heat pumps: Replace when they are over 10 years old 

• Furnaces and boilers: Replace when they are over 15 years old

However, the lifespan of your HVAC system can depend on several factors, including: The make and model of your system, your climate, how often you run the system, and how often you maintain your system. Changing your air filter every 30-60 days (depending on the quality of the filter) is critical for maintaining the longevity of your system.

Here are some signs that it might be time to replace your HVAC system:

• You're constantly making repairs that add up in cost 

• Your system is making foul odors, such as musty, burning metal, or melting plastic 

• Your system uses R-22 Freon, which is being phased out by the EPA

Lack of Solar Energy

Solar technology wasn’t widely available when most older homes were built, so they miss out on potential energy savings from renewable sources.

If you’re interested in reducing energy loss and making your home more comfortable, UBH Solar offers a free energy assessment to help you identify where your home may be losing energy. During this assessment, UBH Solar’s team evaluates your home’s insulation, roofing, HVAC systems, and other potential areas of energy loss.

UBH Solar’s Services for Boosting Your Home’s Energy Efficiency

UBH Solar provides a range of services designed to improve energy efficiency in older homes. Here’s how each service can help transform your home into a more comfortable AND cost-effective space.

1. Free Energy Assessment: A crucial first step in identifying problem areas, UBH Solar’s energy assessment provides homeowners with a customized report on where energy is being lost and the best ways to improve efficiency.

2. Roofing Services: The roof is one of the primary sources of heat loss in a home. UBH Solar offers high-quality, energy-efficient roofing solutions that help reduce temperature fluctuations and enhance your home’s overall comfort.

3. Insulation Upgrades: Proper insulation is vital for any home’s efficiency, especially older ones with outdated materials. UBH Solar specializes in insulation upgrades, helping homeowners seal in warmth during winter and cool air during summer.

4. Solar Installation: Take advantage of renewable energy by adding solar panels to your home. Solar technology helps lower your reliance on the grid and can significantly reduce energy bills. UBH Solar provides professional solar panel installation, and finanacing or lease options for all credit types.

5. HVAC Services: Upgrading to a modern, energy-efficient HVAC system can dramatically cut your energy consumption. UBH Solar offers HVAC installation and maintenance services to keep your system running efficiently year-round.

Practical Tips for Improving Efficiency in Older Homes

In addition to using UBH Solar’s services, here are some practical steps you can take to increase energy efficiency in your older home:

• Seal Drafty Windows and Doors: Install weather stripping and caulk around windows and doors to prevent air leaks.

• Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances: Replacing old appliances with ENERGY STAR-rated ones can reduce energy use significantly.

• Add Insulation to the Attic: Attics are common sources of heat loss. Adding insulation to your attic can make a noticeable difference in your home’s comfort level and energy bills.

• Install a Programmable Thermostat: A smart thermostat can help you manage your home’s temperature more efficiently, adjusting it automatically based on your preferences.

Why Choose UBH Solar for Your Energy Efficiency Needs?

At UBH Solar, we’re committed to helping homeowners make the most of their energy resources. Our range of services—roofing, insulation, solar installation, and HVAC—are designed to provide a comprehensive approach to energy efficiency. With a free energy assessment, our team will work with you to develop an improvement plan tailored to your home’s needs, helping you save on energy bills and reduce your environmental impact.

Energy efficiency doesn’t have to mean giving up the character of your older home. With UBH Solar’s expert guidance and services, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: a charming, historic property that’s also comfortable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly. Reach out to us to learn more about all of our services!

For more insights on making older homes energy-efficient, check out the full article on Bob Vila’s website.