In today's blog post, we're going to discuss how you can make your existing home more energy efficient and improve indoor air quality, even if you don't have the budget for a big remodel or a new build. Whether you have $1,000, $5,000, or $10,000 to spend, there are several upgrades you can make that will have a significant impact.

Let's start with the $1,000 budget. One of the best ways to spend this money is to invest in an energy audit. Look for a certified raider from reputable organizations like Resnet or BPI. They will assess your home's energy performance and provide recommendations for improvements. It's also worth considering a blower door test to identify areas where your home is losing energy. This may cost a bit more, but it will give you a better understanding of how to upgrade your home in the future.

If you're more concerned about indoor air quality, spending $1,000 on a four-inch pleated media air filter for your HVAC system is a great option. The standard one-inch filters are not as effective, so investing in a higher-quality filter will improve filtration and air quality. Look for models with a minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) of 11 or higher. Another option is to invest in a standalone air purifier, but be aware that most affordable models are not very effective. If you're willing to spend more, IQAir makes a reliable option.

Now let's move on to the $5,000 budget. One of the best things you can do with this budget is to implement the recommendations from your energy audit. Watch a video called "Insulation 2.0" to learn about air sealing and insulation techniques that can greatly improve your home's efficiency. Additionally, consider sealing your ductwork if it's located in unconditioned spaces like crawl spaces or attics. Aeroseal is a trusted brand that offers a proprietary system for sealing ducts.

Upgrading your HVAC system and improving air filtration are also options within the $5,000 budget. Consider installing a dedicated dehumidifier, especially if you live in a humid area. This will help lower humidity levels and improve air quality. There are also higher-quality air filtration systems available, such as IQAir's MERV 16 system or Trane Clean Effects, that can provide excellent filtration.

Finally, if you have a budget of $10,000, you can make some significant improvements to your home. Consider using Aeroseal's sister company, AeroBarrier, to seal any remaining air leaks in your home. This process involves pressurizing the house and using aerosolized caulk to seal leaks. While it's typically done during construction, it can also be done in a resale house if it's empty.

Another option within this budget is to replace your HVAC system and ductwork. This can greatly improve energy efficiency and indoor air quality. You could even consider switching to a mini-split system for specific areas of your home that have hot or cold spots. Mitsubishi, Daikin, and LG are reputable brands that offer mini-split systems.

These are just a few ideas for upgrading your existing home to improve energy efficiency and indoor air quality. Remember, these budgets are flexible, and you can adjust them based on your specific needs and priorities. knoxvillegc.com