Eco Spray Insulation contractors will introduce R-40 insulation, the secret energy-saving hero of spring. In this article, we will explore the five strong reasons that support R-40 insulation as the ideal material for maximizing your home’s energy efficiency during springtime. 

How to increase Energy Efficiency in your home?

Nowadays, energy-efficient homes are constantly becoming more and more important, especially in the spring season, as the weather conditions tend to change drastically. Eco-friendly becomes more and more crucial, especially in the spring when weather conditions change significantly.

We can adjust to changing temperatures, use heating and cooling systems less frequently, and ultimately consume less energy by improving the energy efficiency of our homes. During this transitional period, adopting energy-efficient habits enables us to retain a cozy indoor environment while limiting our negative influence on the environment and increasing our financial savings.

Why is R-Value important for Effective Home Insulation?

The ability of home insulation to resist heat movement is measured by the R-value, which is a crucial component of effective home insulation. The resistance of insulation to heat transfer increases with R-value, which results in better indoor temperature control and less pressure on heating and cooling systems.

Lower R-value insulation is less efficient in stopping heat transfer, which can lead to higher energy use and higher expenditures. The R-value must be recognized and taken into account when choosing and installing insulation in order to achieve the best long-term energy conservation and cost savings.

What are the crucial reasons that make R-40 Insulation Effective and Cost-saving?

Enhanced Thermal Efficiency

When compared to insulation materials with lower R-values, R-40 insulation stands out due to its greater R-value, which indicates superior insulation performance. A higher R-value denotes better insulation performance because it measures the insulation’s resistance to heat flow.

R-40 insulation excels in preserving suitable indoor temperatures during spring’s weather fluctuations. Due to its high R-value, the indoor environment is less affected by changes in outside temperature. This is done by reducing heat transmission through the ceilings, walls, and floors. This means that R-40 insulation functions as an insulator, avoiding excessive heat gain or loss during freezing spring evenings or hot afternoons.

Effective house insulation, like R-40 insulation, can significantly reduce heat transmission, resulting in energy savings and a reduced need for heating and cooling systems. Let’s take a deeper look at how it functions:

• Reduced Heat Loss → R40 isolation has the basic function of acting as a barrier and preventing heat loss in buildings during colder spring days and nights. By reducing this significant heat loss that comes from floors, ceilings or walls then less energy will be by far needed in order to maintain a regular and comfortable indoor temperature. This results in less heating being needed and less energy being used.
• Reduced Heat Gain →  R-40 insulation helps to reduce heat gain from the exterior on warmer spring days. By preventing too much heat from entering the building, air conditioning or cooling systems don’t have to work as hard. As a result, the cooling load is reduced and the amount of electricity is consumed.
• Improved HVAC Efficiency →  Heating and cooling systems can function more effectively with less heat transfer through the building envelope. HVAC systems don’t need to run as often or for as long when the indoor temperature is steady thanks to good home insulation. Long-term maintenance and replacement expenses are decreased as a result of energy savings and decreased equipment wear and tear.
• Global Impact→ Energy savings obtained by using heating or cooling systems less frequently have a favorable environmental impact. R-40 insulation aids in lowering greenhouse gas emissions related to the production of electricity by reducing energy usage. Encouraging energy saving and lowering the carbon footprint, it helps to create a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.

Minimizing Air Leaks

The building envelope’s gaps and cracks must be sealed with R-40 insulation in order to effectively stop air leaks from occurring. R-40 insulation also offers high thermal resistance. This functionality is important for the following reasons:

• Creating a Barrier to Seal Gaps and Cracks → Insulation R-40 creates a barrier by filling in voids, cracks, and gaps in the building envelope. By forming a continuous layer of insulation, it ensures that there are no gaps where air can escape. The effectiveness and energy-saving possibilities of the insulation are maximized thanks to this extensive coverage.
• Preventing Energy Waste → Air leaks in a house or other structure can result in significant energy loss. Conditioned air produced by HVAC systems might leak outdoors if there are openings or flaws in the building envelope. The interior is simultaneously penetrated by outdoor air, needing more energy to maintain the required temperature.
• Indoor Air Quality Improvement → Air leaks not only let the conditioned air escape, but they also let toxins, allergies, and pollutants from the outside in. By reducing the entrance of dust, pollen, and other pollutants from the outside environment, R-40 insulation helps to improve interior air quality by caulking gaps and crevices. As a result, the living environment is healthier and cozier.
• Increase in Heating & Cooling Demands → Air leaks make heating and cooling systems work harder to make up for the air that is lost or penetrated, which raises their energy costs. Higher energy use and higher utility bills are a result of this increased demand. R-40 insulation lessens the load on HVAC systems, improves fuel efficiency, and lowers overall energy expenditures by successfully sealing these gaps and fractures.

We may realize the value of R-40 insulation’s contribution to the reduction of energy waste by comprehending the relevance of air sealing. It eliminates the need for continuous heating or cooling because of its capacity to seal gaps and crevices and ensure that conditioned air stays inside. As a result, there is a decrease in energy use, a drop in utility costs, and an improvement in indoor comfort and air quality. The best way to increase energy saving and create an airtight, well-insulated building envelope is with insulation R-40.

Energy Cost Savings

Due to its capacity to minimize thermal gain or loss, R-40 insulation has a substantial potential to cut energy costs. Here’s how this insulation may result in decreased heating and cooling costs in more detail:

• Long-Term Energy Savings → Using R-40 insulation results in long-term energy savings since it reduces both heat gain and loss. The insulation decreases the frequency and length of the HVAC system operating during the spring season and beyond by keeping more constant indoor temperatures. As a result, there will be continual energy cost reductions and possible savings that will add up over time.

• Return on Investment →  Purchasing insulation R-40 results in cost savings on energy. Although the initial installation expenses may be greater than those for insulation with a lower R-value, the long-term savings make the investment worthwhile. Over the course of the insulation’s lifespan, the energy cost reductions produced by R-40 insulation may help cover the initial costs.

R-40 insulation helps homeowners as well as building residents reduce heat gain or loss, which lowers heating and cooling costs. The excellent thermal resistance of the insulation greatly reduces energy use, improves HVAC effectiveness, and provides long-term cost benefits. Switching to insulation R-40 can result in lower energy costs and more significant fuel savings, making it a wise financial move.

Environmental Benefits

R-40 insulation significantly lowers energy use, greenhouse gas emissions, and carbon footprint, all of which contribute to environmental sustainability. Here is a closer look at its advantageous effects:

• Energy Savings → By minimizing heat gain or loss via the building envelope, insulation R-40 helps to lower energy usage. Since fossil fuels are a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions, this lowered energy usage may reduce the demand for them. The carbon footprint of homeowners and building occupants can be greatly reduced by using less electricity to maintain indoor temperatures.
• The Efficiency of HVAC Systems → R-40 insulation increases HVAC system effectiveness by reducing heat transmission throughout walls, ceilings, and floors. HVAC systems don’t have to work as hard or as long, which means less energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. Along with minimizing the need for replacement and lessening environmental impact, this increased efficiency also helps HVAC equipment last longer.
• Global Climate Change Mitigation → R-40 insulation can help lessen the effects of climate change by lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Every action we take that will reduce our carbon footprint and protect natural resources can aid in addressing climate change, which is a serious environmental challenge for our world. A tiny but crucial step toward a more sustainable future is the use of insulation R-40 in buildings.
• Preservation of Natural Resources → The production and delivery of building supplies can have a big impact on the environment. Homeowners and building owners can use R-40 insulation to lower the amount of insulation needed, which will reduce the amount of natural resources used in the manufacturing process. By doing so, you may lessen waste, protect the environment overall, and conserve natural resources.

The insulation is a great option for home and building owners who wish to encourage sustainability and save the resources of our planet for future generations because it helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the building’s carbon footprint.

Which Insulation Option is More Effective for Achieving an R-40 Energy Efficiency Rating?

With an R-40 value, both blown-in and spray foam insulation can be useful for achieving great energy performance. The two choices differ in a few ways.

Typically, spray foam insulation is applied as a liquid that expands and solidifies into foam. In order to create a tight thermal envelope, it can fill small cracks and crevices, which gives it outstanding air-sealing capabilities. With a high R-value per inch, spray foam insulation offers good thermal resistance. Although it may cost more than alternative insulation solutions, it provides better performance insulation and air sealing advantages.

On the other side, blown in insulation is often formed of loose fibers or particles like cellulose, fiberglass, or mineral wool. Using specialized equipment, the insulation material is blown or injected into the specified area for installation. Insulation that is blown in place can fill gaps and cover surfaces evenly. Compared to spray foam insulation, it is typically more affordable, although it could not offer as good an air seal. 

Regardless of the material chosen, a significant thickness of insulation is required for achieving an R-40 rating. The specific thickness will be determined by the R-value per inch of the insulating material. It is vital to speak with a qualified insulation contractor who can evaluate your unique scenario and suggest the insulation type and thickness that will work best for you.

How can Professional Insulation Services transform your home?

Consider the advantages of R-40 insulation if you want to increase energy saving in your house or building this spring. Take action by consulting an insulation contractor to determine your insulation needs and consider the viability of upgrading your home insulation. 

You can experience increased comfort, significant energy savings, and a favorable effect on the environment by upgrading to R-40 insulation with Eco Spray Insulation. Call our project manager and learn all the details related to R-40 insulation and start increasing your springtime energy efficiency right away!

Office energy efficiency improvement is a stepping stone and a basic necessity that improves business owners’ well-being. By consistently improving your office’s energy efficiency, you not only save money by lowering your energy bills, but you also improve your quality of life. You are one step closer to the golden standard office by utilizing helpful energy-efficient devices (boilers, HVAC, furnace) and adequately insulating your living and storage space.

Superb strategies for increasing the energy efficiency of your office:

• Insulation for the office
• Spray Foam
• Use of energy-saving devices
• Putting in energy-saving doors and windows

Insulation for the Office

When it comes to improving house energy efficiency, office insulation is crucial. By insulating your living and storage areas, you create an air barrier that restricts airflow, paving the way for significant savings on your monthly energy expenditures. It is in every business owner’s best interest to install insulation in their attic, office walls, basement, and other areas where heating and cooling systems operate.

Spray foam, fiberglass, and cellulose insulation are all terms you’ve probably heard of. Some of you fellow Ontarians may already be using one of these materials in your office. Others highlight these insulation technologies because of their sustainability and the benefits they provide.

Aside from lowering monthly utility expenditures, these insulating technologies provide officeowners with extra options.

Other advantages of insulation systems

• Prevent pests and rats from approaching the perimeter of your office.
• Stop the growth of mold on your office’s walls.
• Reduce noises from outside your living space as well as between rooms and levels.
• Increase the value of your property by 3 to 6 percent.

Spray Foam – Providing the best value-for-money ratio

It is now common knowledge in the insulation industry that Spray Foam Insulation is the best material an office owner can find to insulate their living and storage space. Spray foam installation involves applying polyurethane foam directly to office walls, causing the foam to seal every crevice and fracture, resulting in an impregnable effective air barrier.

The material does not deteriorate over time and requires little to no maintenance. When compared to cellulose or fiberglass insulation, spray foam insulation is more expensive. Cheaper materials, on the other hand, are prone to deterioration, requiring repair and maintenance, which would multiply the initial expenditure multiple times.

Furthermore, spray foam insulation has the highest R-Value per inch of thickness, which is a direct measure of an insulation system’s efficiency. Simply said, the higher an insulation system’s R-Value, the lower the monthly utility expenses.

Use of energy-saving devices

You use less energy for the same chores when you use office energy-efficient gadgets, and your living quality does not suffer as a result. Replacing your old HVAC system with an energy-efficient one may be more expensive at first, but the initial investment will eventually pay for itself over time.

Installing an energy-efficient boiler can also result in significant savings. Modern boilers are more energy efficient because they avoid the heat loss that occurs up the chimney.

Solar panels are the gold standard for improving house energy efficiency. The high cost of installation and maintenance are the primary issues that keep the average household from taking advantage of this very energy-efficient method.

Switching to low-flow showerheads will significantly reduce water consumption, perhaps saving up to 20% on water utility bills. This energy-saving method is inexpensive, and the benefits can be noticed within the first month.

Putting in energy-saving doors and windows

The insulation system is king, but it may not be sufficient if the air leakage is not coming from your office’s walls. Cooperation with other energy-efficient gadgets is important for ensuring the full performance of an insulation system and extracting as many benefits as feasible from it.

Switching to energy-efficient doors and windows, for example, is strongly advised for households whose old doors and windows are prone to air leaks. Reasonably, as with any energy-saving device, you will have to spend more in the beginning, but rest confident that every dollar will be repaid over time as your utility bill is decreased month after month.

If you are an office owner in Ontario or a resident of the suburbs, you may be eligible for several rebate programs in Ontario. One of these is the GreenON Window Rebate, a program launched by the Ontario Climate Change Action Plan to assist Ontarians of all income levels in moving closer to more energy-efficient practices. To be qualified and apply for the program, you must first fulfill specific prerequisites.

Why Choose Eco Spray Insulation?

Eco Spray Insulation’s major goal is to supply high-quality goods while maintaining the greatest level of competence. From the consultation through the execution stage, our team of professionals will assist you in determining the optimal solution that suits your office’s needs at the lowest cost. Please contact us for a free estimate!

By doing these, we are not only saving money on energy bills but the environment as well. The daily increasing use of energy has a high impact on climate change and we can all do our part by following these tips. In this article, we will take a look at some tips on energy saving, to somewhat help Ontarian homeowners create a better understanding of energy efficiency and hopefully make them take action today. 

Home Insulation

Home insulation is the gold standard of energy efficiency. As aforementioned, you can expect to save up to 45% on energy bills when insulation is added to your building. There are several insulation methods and each creates an effective air barrier that prevents heat flow. When insulation is added to your building walls, attic, basement, it can seal all gaps and cracks, making this way a more comfortable living, working, or storage space that also necessitates less energy for heating and cooling. 

And insulation also serves as a sound barrier, insect and rodent repellent, fire retardant, and it can increase your property value by a whopping 3 up to 6%. What to know more about insulation? Well, keep in mind that different insulation methods deliver different R-Values. In short, R-Value is the standard that measures the performance of insulation material. The higher it is, the lower your energy bills will be. 

With that said, spray foam can lower your electricity bills by up to 45% which is quite impressive when compared with fiberglass insulation (25%) and cellulose insulation (25 up to 30%). What you will also need to know is how to hire an insulation contractor. See, the installation process is key to enjoying the benefits of insulation for decades to come and if it is not completed successfully, you will more likely lose money rather than save. Before hiring a Toronto moving company and relocating, make sure to check if the new house has the insulation installed or not.

Energy Efficient Gadgets

Although energy-efficient gadgets are more expensive in the beginning and for some might also be cost-depriving, you can expect the initial investment to pay off with the passing of years by saving on energy. Understandably, energy-efficient gadgets use less energy for the same tasks without compromising the quality. Since heating and cooling “is to blame” for 60% of your electricity usage, a smart/programmable thermostat is where you can start.

 You can further increase your energy preservation efforts by switching to LED light bulbs and using low-flow showerheads (more about them below). Other energy-efficient gadgets we recommend using are modern boilers (can avoid heat loss that escapes up the flue) and solar panels. You can significantly save on energy with the latter, but the installation and maintenance cost can be too much for the average homeowner. And to further guarantee the functionality of your home insulation, you can choose to install new and energy-efficient doors and windows. 

Easy Practices to Save on Energy at Home

Use energy-efficient light bulbs

Switching your conventional light bulbs to LEDs can lower your monthly energy bills significantly and that can be an advantage in the long run. The old traditional incandescent light bulbs need anywhere from 25-80% more electricity than light-emitting diode bulbs (LEDs), Halogen incandescent bulbs, and compact fluorescent lights (CFLs). Although energy-saving light bulbs are more expensive, their longer lifespan and energy conservation will pay off. 

Use natural light more

Use natural sunlight as much as you can. One south-facing window, for example, can illuminate anywhere from 20 up to 100 times its area. And during this time of the day, turning off one 60-watt bulb for 4 hours can save you up to $8 over a year. 

Take shorter showers

Hot water is expensive. If a family of two would cut their shower time by 1 minute, they could save up to $40 a year on electricity. Switching to low-flow showerheads can also lower water consumption and eventually decrease water bills significantly. 

Maintain your AC unit

For your air conditioner to run smoothly and efficiently, it needs to be maintained continuously. What you can do is swap out the old air filters with new ones every at least 90 days. You can also decrease its energy consumption significantly by removing anything that might be blocking the vents. 

Turn off not in use electronics, appliances

Turn your appliances off standby mode and you can save up to $50 a year. Rest assured as many electronic devices (TVs, printers, computers, fax machines) can be plugged off without compromising their functionality. 

Fix any leaky plumbing fitting

Leaky faucets can waste up to 11.000 liters of water each year. Fixing them can save you up to $40 a year. 

Turn off the AC on your way out

That’s a no-brainer! Turning off your air conditioner when not needed can save on energy bills. In addition, a programmable thermostat can further help you lower energy use for heating and cooling.

Draft-proof your house

Last but not least, take a survey on your house perimeter and check for any drafts. You can apply weatherstrips for your doors and windows, re-caulk where necessary, and install new door sweeps. 

Why Choose Eco Spray?

Eco Spray Insulation team is proud to be operating in the Greater Toronto Area and the suburban communities since 2008. Throughout the years, we have established ourselves as experts in energy-efficient building practices like insulation systems are. Whether be a small maintenance issue or a basement to attic project, our team of professionals serves every customer with the highest standard of workmanship. Contact us to receive a free estimate.

To save money, you can lower the temperature and get in the habit of wearing heavy sweaters indoors. However, if you have an unfinished attic, properly insulating it is one of the simplest methods to keep your heating expenditure in check this season. According to the Department of Energy, a properly insulated attic can save you 10% to 50% on your heating expense.

In summer, it works in the reverse direction, it helps to keep your house’s internal temperatures stable, reducing cooling needs.

Types of Insulation and Material Costs

There are three main types of insulation, each with its own set of advantages and costs. It’s critical to grasp the differences between these various materials in order to make the best choice. Eco Spray Insulation has all these products and of course professional installers too. The following are the three different types of insulating materials and their prices:

Blown-In Insulation

Loose-fill (blown-in) insulation is recommended for attics with irregular construction or obstacles between joists, as well as older attics that already have some insulation and just require a touch-up. Installing loose-fill insulation in your attic costs an average of $1,796.

Spray Foam Insulation

We provide Spray foam insulation which is the type of insulation that comes in both open and closed-cell varieties. Although the open cell alternative is less expensive, it does not provide any vapor protection. Although the closed-cell version is more expensive, it is denser and provides a stronger air and water barrier. Although this alternative is pricey, it is likely the highest-quality material available. Spray foam insulation costs an average of $2,208.

Batt Insulation

Rolls of insulation fibers are bonded together with a paper or reflective foil backing in batt insulation. Fiberglass, cellulose, mineral wool, or even recycled blue jeans could be used as insulation fibers. This type is excellent for covering a large area, but it might be difficult to install in tight spaces and small gaps.

This is the best choice for attics with conventional joist spacing and new construction that is free of impediments or existing insulation. The average cost of installation for homeowners is $2,091.

Needed R-Value for Different Attic Areas

1. Attics and flat ceilings

When it comes to attic and flat ceiling insulation, R-30 and R-38 fiberglass or mineral wool batts are widely recommended options. These insulation products come in full widths of 16″ or 24″, ensuring optimal coverage and filling gaps between ceiling joists or truss bottom chords. They extend above and effectively seal most timber members, providing comprehensive insulation. For even higher insulation values, two layers can be utilized, and their R-values can be combined. By combining an R-19 batt with an R-30, for example, you can achieve an impressive R-49 insulation value. This versatility allows homeowners to tailor the insulation to their specific needs, ensuring energy efficiency and enhanced comfort throughout the year. Invest in these reliable insulation solutions to create a well-insulated attic or flat ceiling that contributes to energy savings and a cozy living environment.

2. Cathedral Ceilings

R-30 and R-38 fiberglass or mineral wool batts are the most prevalent products for attics and flat ceilings. Please keep in mind that these items are full width – 16′′ or 24′′ broad. This ensures that the insulation fills the gaps between ceiling joists or truss bottom chords, as well as extending above and closing over most timber members. Two layers can be employed and their R-values merged to produce R-values of R-38 and higher. When an R-19 batt is combined with an R-30, the result is an R-49.

3. Side walls (to the exterior)

Insulation products now are designed to work with both 2 x 4 and 2 x 6 construction. Both 15′′ and 23′′ standard sidewall widths are offered. Steel stud structure is offered in 16′′ and 24′′ widths. Building rules in many regions of the country now require R-19 or greater insulation ratings in sidewall components. The insulation and outside sheathing is normally included in this.

4. Ductwork

Ductwork is one of the simplest areas in the home to neglect when it comes to insulation. Insulation goods such as fiberglass duct board, duct wrap, and duct liner are used to improve indoor comfort by transferring heated and cooled air at design temperatures from room to room, managing condensation, and dampening sounds such as cross-talk between rooms or HVAC system noise. Our staff will execute your project to the best industry standards, so you can be really comfortable during the whole process.

5. Interior Walls

In a typical interior wall, adding insulation beneath the drywall can improve sound management and raise the Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating. Noise-blocking barriers between rooms are only modestly effective in most homes. Installing insulation in the wall cavity is by far the simplest and most cost-effective approach to noise mitigation.

Check for Rebates

When you improve your insulation, you’re also improving your home’s energy efficiency. The government appreciates such actions, and some state and local governments are eager to compensate you for them. Since May, 27th, they present Canada Greener Homes Grant to get more than $5000 for the energy-efficient retrofit repairs that you do at your home.

It’s Not Too Late to Insulate

Don’t worry if you think you need attic insulation – it’s never too late to take action. If you’re considering upgrading your attic insulation, it’s wise to enlist the expertise of a professional who can assess your attic and determine your specific insulation needs. By consulting an Eco Spray Insulation expert, you’ll gain valuable insights and make well-informed decisions to ensure the best outcome for your home. Investing in proper attic insulation can make a significant difference in energy efficiency and comfort. So, don’t hesitate to seek professional insulation guidance and make the right choice for an adequately insulated attic that brings long-term benefits to your home.

Call (416) 860-6664 to speak with one of our in-house insulation specialists. Request an online quote by sending an email to info@ecosprayinsulation.ca. Eco Spray Insulation will contact you as soon as possible to discuss your exact insulation requirements.

The energy could be lost from:

• drafts, 
• air leaks, 
• openings around windows and doors, 
• or from an outdated heating or cooling system.

It is these losses that need to be reduced by doing energy efficiency upgrades. 

The improvement of energy efficiency will help you:

• Reduce energy consumption
• Save you money
• Create a home comfortable environment.

One of the most important home improvement projects you should be thinking about is insulation upgrade or replacement. Insulation that works efficiently will reduce electricity bills, increase home comfort and also help the environment. 

Start with an Energy Evaluation

It is known differently as an home energy audit. This process is the first step towards evaluating the ways in which your home consumes energy. You will understand where the energy goes. Is it going to the air conditioner, water heater, ceiling fan or to the light bulbs? 

A home energy audit will identify the necessary steps to make your home energy efficient and bring you energy savings. The energy audit might include a walk through process. Infrared cameras, door blowers or other techniques might be used  to identify potential air conditioning leaks. 

These in turn will reveal the most cost effective approach to upgrading your home’s insulation. This upgrade might also require an air barrier or a vapor barrier.

How Does Energy Efficient Insulation Work?

Efficient insulation will preserve the heat inside during the winter months and also block heat from entering home during the summer. This will result in a warmer home in winter and a cooler home in summer. There will also be more hot water in the winter and more cold water in the summer. It is really that simple and throughout the years we have come to understand that it works very well.

Homeowners that consider upgrading their home’s insulation might be worried about the costs. But let us just tell you that the cost of the upgrade or replacement will pay for itself through the energy savings. At the end you will be left with an increased home comfort. 

We at Eco Spray recommend insulation upgrade and air sealing as the best approach to having effective insulation. Air sealing is very important as it preserves indoor heated air and blocks unwanted outdoor air from entering the home. Only after effective air sealing is reached, then can you continue with the upgrade or replacement in areas such as:

• Attics, basements and crawl spaces
• Exterior walls and floors over unheated spaces
• Other spots with old, thin or poorly installed insulation

These parts of the house need to always be insulated. The insulation needs to be continuous and have the recommended thickness, as per Ontario’s Building Code.

Typical Home Energy Improvements

Here below we will walk you through some of the most recommended upgrades in order to improve your overall energy efficiency. These steps will help you increase your home’s comfort, decrease energy consumption and save you money on your monthly bills. Our experts at Eco Spray Insulation can help you localize the key home improvements you need to undertake to improve your energy efficiency.

Seal Air Leaks

First and foremost, air leaks in your walls, ceiling, floors, window, and doors need to be sealed with sprayed foam insulation, caulk, or weather stripping. Outside cold air diffusing into your home during the winter can cause an unbalanced indoor climate and increased energy costs. If you can manage to reduce the drafts in your home, you might experience energy savings that range between 5% to 30% per year. Your home will be more comfortable and the indoor climate will be easier maintained. 

Add Insulation

There are different types of insulation for each part of your home. The most common areas to be insulated are the attic, the basement, exterior walls, and crawl spaces. Apart from insulation upgrades, you will need a combination of air sealing in order to experience the full benefits. Upgrading old insulated parts of the home is one of the fastest ways to reduce energy consumption.

Upgrade Windows, Doors and Skylights

Energy star products, windows, doors and skylights will add to the energy efficiency of your home. Air infiltrations into and out of your home are possible through every crack or hole. Estimates say that around 20% of the air infiltrations occur through the openings in your windows, doors and skylights. Special storm windows might reduce the heat loss with as much as 25% to 50%. 

Using Programmable Thermostats

Installing and setting programmable thermostats  will save you energy. They will automatically regulate your home temperature, whether you are home or not, asleep or wide awake. As much as 10% on your energy costs can be saved if you just turn your thermostat on for 8 hours a day. 

Sealing Ducts

Apart from sealing all of the ducts, you have to make sure that they are put straight and are efficiently connected. We have seen many cases where ducts had not been properly insulated and had holes resulting in air leaks. 

As much as 60% of the conditioned air can be lost and if the ducts are not properly sealed. Heated air will travel through cold spaces such as attics or any other crawls spaces. Thus, it will lose heat before it reaches the register.

Upgrade Heating and Cooling Systems

The HVAC system in your house consumes more energy than any other equipment which uses energy to function. On average, circa 45% of your home utility bills come from heating and cooling. You can reduce your energy consumption by 20% to 50% if you put up a combination of the following: adequate insulation, air and duct sealing, thermostat usage.

Install Energy Efficient Water Heater

There are lots of energy efficient tank water heaters to choose from. Even more, a new product called tankless water heater is in high demand. Water heating can account for as much as 12% of your monthly utility bills. 

It is estimated to be your third biggest energy consumer in your home. You should also consider consuming less hot water if you want to reduce your energy consumption. You can intervaly turn off the thermostat on your heater and also insulate your water heater for improved efficiency. 

Upgrade Household Electric Appliances

The burden of the electric appliances to your total energy consumption is around 15%. The top energy consumption comes from appliances such as the refrigerator, washing machine, clothes dryers ets. Upgrading to energy efficient appliances will reduce your energy consumption overall. 

Use Energy Efficient Lighting Bulbs

An average Ontario household dedicates around 11% of its energy consumption to lighting fixtures and appliances. Opting for more energy saving lighting bulbs will improve your overall energy efficiency. New lighting technology will reduce the energy consumption required for the lighting by 50% to 75%.