Comfort, Savings, and Smarter Living — All Start With Energy Awareness
Energy efficiency isn’t just about lowering your electric bill — it’s about keeping your East Texas home comfortable year-round, protecting your systems from strain, and reducing waste caused by unseen inefficiencies.
From Longview to Marshall, homeowners often deal with unique regional challenges — high humidity, heat, and shifting soil — all of which can affect how efficiently a home operates.
A professional home inspection can uncover energy losses you may never notice — helping you make small, affordable changes that lead to big improvements in comfort and long-term savings.
1. Energy Efficiency Starts With a Home’s Structure
When inspectors evaluate your home’s efficiency, one of the first things they look at is the building envelope — the barriers that separate your living space from the outside elements.
That includes:
- Attic insulation (type, depth, and coverage)
- Windows and doors (seals, drafts, and installation quality)
- Exterior walls and siding (gaps, cracks, and moisture entry points)
- Roof condition (ventilation, radiant barriers, and potential leaks)
A home that’s well-insulated and sealed holds conditioned air longer, reducing the strain on heating and cooling systems — a key concern in East Texas where temperatures fluctuate dramatically between seasons.
💡 Quick Tip: Check your attic insulation. If you can see the tops of joists, you likely need more insulation for optimal energy performance.
2. The HVAC System: Where Comfort and Efficiency Meet
Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system is one of the biggest energy consumers in your home.
During an inspection, HVAC efficiency is assessed by examining:
- System age and capacity
- Filter condition and duct integrity
- Thermostat accuracy
- Proper airflow and return placement
In many East Texas homes, we see systems running longer than necessary because of air leaks, dirty coils, or clogged filters. These small inefficiencies can drive up utility bills and shorten your system’s lifespan.
💡 Pro Tip: Replace air filters every 30–60 days, especially during peak seasons. Clean filters improve airflow and reduce energy use.
*Check out our blog on Smart Home Technology for education on upgrades to make your home more efficient!
3. Air Leaks: The Hidden Culprit of High Bills
Even newer homes in East Texas can suffer from air leaks around windows, doors, attics, or crawlspaces.
Inspectors use thermal imaging to identify where air is escaping or entering — areas that often aren’t visible to the naked eye.
Common sources of air leaks:
- Gaps around window frames
- Recessed lighting and attic hatches
- Electrical outlets on exterior walls
- Unsealed ducts or attic access panels
Sealing these leaks with caulk, weatherstripping, or foam insulation is a quick and affordable way to cut heating and cooling costs by up to 20%.
4. Lighting and Appliances: Small Changes, Big Impact
While lighting and appliances may not seem like inspection priorities, they’re part of the bigger energy picture.
An inspection can help you spot:
- Old incandescent bulbs that could be replaced with LEDs
- Appliances lacking Energy Star certification
- Improper venting of dryers and exhaust systems (a fire hazard and efficiency concern)
💡 Fun Fact: LED bulbs use up to 75% less energy and last 25 times longer than incandescent ones — a small switch that adds up quickly.
5. Water Heating Efficiency
Your water heater can account for nearly 20% of your home’s total energy usage. Inspectors check for:
- Proper temperature settings (ideal: 120°F)
- Sediment buildup inside the tank
- Pipe insulation on hot water lines
- Leaks or rust around the base
In East Texas homes, especially those with hard water, mineral deposits often build up faster. Flushing your water heater annually can improve efficiency and extend its life.
6. Attic and Crawlspace Insights
Two of the most overlooked areas affecting home efficiency are attics and crawlspaces.
In East Texas, these areas often experience:
- Insufficient insulation (especially in older homes)
- Moisture buildup from humidity or poor ventilation
- Gaps or openings that let in unconditioned air
During an inspection, these spaces are visually examined for insulation quality, proper vapor barriers, and air circulation — all of which contribute to your energy costs and indoor comfort.
💡 Bonus Tip: Insulating hot water pipes and ductwork in crawlspaces can prevent heat loss and protect against freezing during cold snaps.
7. The Role of Windows and Doors in Energy Loss
Windows and doors play a major role in home efficiency — especially in East Texas, where intense summer sun and humidity can affect seal integrity.
Inspectors look for:
- Broken seals or condensation between panes
- Cracks or gaps around frames
- Deteriorated weatherstripping
- Old single-pane glass lacking thermal protection
Replacing or sealing problem areas can instantly improve comfort and reduce HVAC strain. Even simple updates, like applying reflective window film or adding insulated curtains, can make a measurable difference.
8. How Home Inspections Help Homeowners Save
A professional inspection doesn’t just highlight inefficiencies — it gives you actionable insights.
The report includes:
- Photos and details of problem areas
- Energy-related recommendations (insulation, ductwork, air leaks)
- Maintenance tips for improving system performance
- Prioritized repair suggestions based on cost and impact
With this knowledge, homeowners can create a targeted maintenance plan — addressing the most significant efficiency issues first for the greatest return on investment.
9. Palmer Inspections: Helping East Texans Maximize Comfort and Savings
At Palmer Inspections we believe every East Texas home should be both comfortable and efficient.
Our detailed home inspections include:
- Infrared thermal imaging for hidden energy loss
- Evaluation of insulation, ventilation, and ductwork
- Foundation and drainage assessments (critical for long-term stability)
- Clear, easy-to-read reports with energy recommendations
Whether you’re buying, selling, or maintaining your home, we’ll help you uncover ways to save energy, improve comfort, and protect your property’s value.