A home’s indoor temperature can vary from room to room due to air vent placement, sun exposure, height, and other factors. These home design features can impact your energy bills each year, so it’s important to take them into consideration if you’re undertaking a remodeling project. Here are some of the ways you can make some smart design choices in your remodel to minimize HVAC energy use and create a more comfortable environment indoors.

Install Energy-Efficient Windows

The quality of your windows has a significant effect on your home’s indoor temperature. If your windows are older, it will likely contribute to higher spending on utilities in order to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. If you are embarking on a remodeling project, consider updating your home with newer, energy-efficient windows.  This will help keep HVAC costs down and reduce your energy use.

Look for ENERGY STAR certified windows. These products are designed to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.  Whilst still allowing plenty of natural light into your home. You can check out the energy performance ratings for windows to determine which type is the best based on the climate where you live.

Place Your Thermostat Strategically

Image via Flickr by John Loo

Installing the thermostat on a wall might seem like just one more finishing touch to add to the list for your remodeling project. However, where you place your thermostat can actually impact your utility bills in a big way. If it is placed on a wall that receives direct sunlight, it can lead to false readings that cause your air conditioning to run longer than necessary. Over time, this leads to premature wear on your thermostat.

Make sure your thermostat is installed on a wall that does not receive direct sunlight or have a higher temperature than the rest of the home for any reason. You can apply this same strategy to any components of your HVAC system that may be affected by your remodel.  In general, it’s best to have all parts of your heating and cooling system out of the direct path of sunlight.

Install Blackout Curtains

Blackout curtains are great for blocking light, but they aren’t just for bedrooms. You should also consider installing blackout curtains in rooms that receive direct sunlight during the day during the warmer months of the year. Blocking out the excess light and heat can keep your home at a more comfortable temperature.  Plus it keeps your AC from having to run excessively.

In addition, blackout curtains are just as valuable during the colder months of the year. The thicker fabric helps to trap in heat.  Meaning you stay warmer inside. Keep in mind that blackout curtains are generally heavier than other types of curtains.  You may need to install heavy-duty curtain rods to support the weight of these window treatments.

Making your home more efficient is a great way to get even more out of your remodeling project. Be sure to take these factors into account so you can create a more comfortable living space for you and your family.