Manufactured homes are subject to “HUD Code” or the Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards. These standards are maintained by the Department of Housing and Urban Development and outline the construction, electrical systems, plumbing, fire resistance, and energy efficiency of a manufactured home. These standards protect the homeowner and help with the overall energy efficiency of the house.
Unfortunately, it can still be challenging to get a power bill under control while living in a manufactured home. Here are a few quick tips on how you can help lower your power bill!
#1 – Blow insulation into the home’s ceiling cavity – most new homes will have a minimum of R22 insulation in the ceiling cavity. However, some older homes have no insulation at all! This quick change alone will make a big difference in your power bill. Look for R30 or R33 blown insulation.
#2 – Lighter roof color – if you are ready to replace your roof, consider a white roof. Lighter-colored shingles will reflect more sunlight, allowing your home to stay cooler and keep your air conditioning bill down.
#3 – Insulate the home’s subfloor – this point goes hand in hand with number 1. Extra insulation will always make a difference in your power bill total. You may have R11 in the subfloor already, but it is good to upgrade to at least R22 rolled insulation if possible.
#4 – Check flashing and caulking – make sure to check flashing and caulking around your doors, windows, plumbing, and vents for thinning. Replace any thin or loose caulking for maximum energy efficiency!
#5 – Check crawlspaces and ducts – check crawlspaces under your home for dead air pockets (non-ventilated air) for any mold or mildew growth. While you are under your home, check your air conditioning ducts to make sure they are tight.
Simply implementing those five quick tips can have a tremendous effect on your power bill next month!
Do you have any tips? Share them below!
