Television star and home energy expert Ty Pennington discusses residential remodeling for both style and energy efficiency in Jackson EMC’s latest Ty Talks installment.

According to Ty, the difference between updating a home for style versus energy efficiency is want versus need. The beauty of remodeling is that it serves as the opportune time to make improvements in both areas!

Ty explains that before beginning a remodeling or energy improvement project, the home’s efficiency strength and shortcomings must be determined to set priorities. To begin, Ty recommends having Jackson EMC perform a Home Energy Evaluation to “keep it in check” with its age. During a Home Energy Evaluation, energy efficiency experts come to the home and give a full evaluation of the home’s energy performance.

“The results help identify the most cost-effective improvements, and you’ll know the areas to focus on while remodeling,” explains Ty.

For example, when remodeling the kitchen, look for new appliances that are ENERGY STAR certified products and include an Energy Guide to show expected usage rates. Ty also explains another remodeling feature to keep in mind while making updates is adding necessary insulation, especially if finishing out a bonus room, basement or man cave.

“Those are areas where insulation is often overlooked, and that can make a world of difference on heating and air costs,” says Ty. “I also look for places where the outside air can penetrate into the conditioned air, like plumbing and wire penetrations.”

If those spaces are accessible during remodeling, always seal those. Furthermore, whether the remodeling project is modifying an existing space, or adding additional space, considerations may need to be made regarding the current heating and cooling system.

“Thinking about energy performance now, rather than later, can save you time and money down the road,” says Ty. “But regardless of the size you remodel, now is the best time to invest in energy improvements.”

To begin “doing more while consuming less” in your home, contact Jackson EMC at 770-822-3211 to make an appointment for a Home Energy Evaluation.