Energy-Saving Tips for Old Farmhouses

Old Farmhouses Often Lack Energy Saving Features

• Older farmhouses are charming places to live. However, because they were built many years ago, they may lack the energy-saving features of newer homes. These homes are not usually energy efficient unless they have been remodeled using energy-saving building materials and appliances. Energy-saving building features that may be absent from old farmhouses include adequate insulation, energy efficient heating and cooling systems, such as those with the ENERGY STAR rating, and energy efficient windows and doors.

Obtain an Energy Audit

• If you live in an old farmhouse and want to improve the dwelling's energy efficiency, start with an energy audit. Your electric company or a private energy auditor can assist with this process. There may be a charge, especially if a private company conducts the audit. You can also do an energy audit yourself. The U.S. Department of Energy website provides guidance on how to conduct your own energy audit, with instructions on how to check for air leaks around windows, baseboards, electrical outlets, pipes and doors. Finding and repairing air leaks can potentially save 5% to 30% percent annually on energy costs. Adding insulation, caulking around windows, and sealing air leaks around pipes will also result in savings on energy costs.

Replace or Add Insulation

• Older farmhouses tend to have less insulation in critical areas like attics. Insulation is designed to keep a house warm in winter and cooler during hot weather. Good insulation reduces energy loss. Over time, insulation can settle and become less effective. If the house feels cold and drafty, check the attic, walls and the areas underneath the floors to determine if insulation is present or sufficient. If more insulation needs to be installed, insulation with an R-value of 25 or better is sufficient in most areas of the country. R-value is refers to resistance to heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better the energy savings. In attic areas, traditional paper-faced, batting type insulation may be installed by laying it between the rafters. Wall insulation takes more work. In an old farmhouse, portions of inside or outside walls would need to be removed to install batt-type insulation. Another option is to blow loose or foam insulation into the wall cavity by drilling holes into the drywall. Adding insulation to the wall cavities of an older home can be a do-it-yourself project. However if there is any doubt about one's ability to add insulation correctly, it is best to hire a professional to accomplish the task.

Energy Efficent Appliances and Lighting

• Another way to achieve energy efficiency is to install energy efficient appliances and lighting. However, prior to taking this step, make sure the electrical system is efficient. It may be necessary to have a licensed electrician assess the electric system and replace or repair faulty components. Choose appliances with the ENERGY STAR designation. These products are designed to reduce energy use. If a heating or cooling system is 15 years older or more, replacing it with an new energy efficient system will save money. The same is true for washers, dryers and other large electrical appliances. Compact fluorescent light bulbs will also reduce energy costs. According to ENERGYSTAR.gov, one compact fluorescent light bulb can save $40 in energy costs over the life of the bulb.