Washington homeowners are no strangers to the beauty of the Pacific Northwest—lush forests, rainy days, and seasonal temperature shifts that can make home energy efficiency a challenge.
Fortunately, modern electric solutions make it easier than ever to reduce your carbon footprint, lower your energy bills, and increase your home’s comfort year-round. Whether you’re looking for small upgrades or planning a major overhaul, here are some effective strategies to improve your home’s energy efficiency using electric-powered technologies.
Schedule an efficiency assessment or maintenance appointment with the technicians at Barron today!
Start with LED Lighting
One of the simplest and most cost-effective upgrades you can make is replacing old incandescent or CFL bulbs with LED lighting. LEDs use up to 75% less energy and last significantly longer, reducing both your utility bills and the need for frequent replacements. Plus, they come in a variety of color temperatures and styles to fit every room in your home. Smart LED bulbs offer additional savings by allowing you to control lighting remotely and automate usage based on time of day or occupancy.
Wouldn’t it be nice to replace your light bulbs every decade rather than every couple of years? We can make that a reality.
Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances
Outdated appliances are often major culprits in high electricity usage. Modern ENERGY STAR® certified appliances—such as refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, and dryers—are designed to consume less energy and water without sacrificing performance. Consider replacing older models with newer electric alternatives that meet or exceed energy efficiency standards. Not only will this reduce your environmental impact, but it can also earn you rebates through local utility programs like Puget Sound Energy.
Insulate and Seal Your Home
Insulation and sealing gaps may not seem “electric” on the surface, but they play a vital role in maximizing the efficiency of electric heating and cooling systems. Adding insulation to attics, walls, and crawl spaces can prevent heat loss during Bellingham’s colder months and keep your home cooler in the summer. Sealing air leaks around windows, doors, and vents also reduces the strain on electric HVAC systems, leading to significant energy savings over time.
Switch to a Heat Pump
Traditional electric baseboard heaters are common in Bellingham, but they can be inefficient. Upgrading to a modern ductless mini-split or air-source heat pump is a smart move. Heat pumps work by transferring heat rather than generating it, making them far more efficient than conventional systems. They also provide both heating and cooling, offering year-round comfort with lower operational costs. Washington State offers incentives and tax credits for heat pump installations, which can help offset the initial investment.
Embrace Smart Thermostats and Home Automation
Smart thermostats learn your habits and adjust your heating and cooling schedules automatically, helping you avoid wasted energy. Models like the Nest or Ecobee allow you to manage temperatures remotely via smartphone, so you can reduce usage when you’re not home. Integrating your smart thermostat with other home automation systems can amplify your energy savings even more.
Our team of Home Performance Experts has served the I-5 corridor from Blaine to Marysville, Oak Harbor to Concrete, and the San Juan Islands since 1972 with a mission of Improving Lives™. We look forward to serving you too! Contact Barron Electrical today for an electrical upgrade.