Lower utility bills are one reason to prioritize energy efficiency. Another is something homeowners experience every day: how comfortable their house feels.

For David Reid of Radiant Homes, those benefits belong in the same conversation. When discussing practical ways to improve a home’s efficiency, he points to three areas worth considering: temperature controls, air sealing, and ventilation.

1. Make Your Thermostat Work Around Your Schedule

A programmable thermostat allows homeowners to adjust temperatures around their routines. During summer, that might mean letting the house warm slightly while everyone is at work, then bringing it back to a comfortable temperature before they return.

Wi-Fi connectivity also makes it possible to check temperatures remotely and receive alerts about potential heating or cooling problems.

Hand turning a smart thermostat on a teal wall

For homeowners planning a custom build, Reid also suggests discussing zoning. Someone who prefers a colder bedroom at night may benefit from controlling that area separately instead of cooling the entire house to the same temperature.

2. Pay Attention to Air Leaks

Insulation is often the first thing people associate with energy efficiency. Reid encourages homeowners to consider the gaps that allow air to move through the building envelope, too.

“Sealing up the gaps and cracks in a home make a huge difference,” Reid said.

He points to areas around outlets, sill plates, and openings between living spaces and the attic. Even a heavily insulated wall cannot fully compensate for gaps that let outside air enter.

In his work, spray foam is one method used to address those leaks. Sealing penetrations into the attic, including those around recessed lighting, is another area he highlights. The goal is to help the home maintain its indoor temperature more effectively.

3. Plan for Fresh Air and Humidity Control

Ventilation is another part of a comfortable home. Reid highlights air exchangers, which introduce fresh air and can help manage indoor humidity during winter.

That matters when excess moisture contributes to condensation on windows. He encourages homeowners to consider how their ventilation system supports the indoor environment alongside heating, cooling, and air sealing.

For Reid, the larger point is that efficiency improvements should be evaluated by how they affect daily living as well as energy use.

“When you create a more energy-efficient home, you’re creating a more comfortable home.”

David Reid is President & Owner of Radiant Homes.

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David Reid

Three Ways to Build a More Comfortable, Energy-Efficient Home