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R-value is calculated by dividing the thickness of an insulation material by its thermal conductivity. The material's composition and density influence thermal conductivity. Materials with lower conductivity values provide better insulation. The higher the R-value, the better the material is at insulating, helping homeowners select insulation that meets the energy needs of their climate and home layout.

Not all homes are suited for solar panel systems. Older roofs or those in poor condition may need repairs or replacement before solar panels can be installed. Some other factors to consider are the amount of sunlight your roof receives, the roof’s orientation and pitch, and any shading from nearby trees or buildings.

R-value measures an insulation material's thermal resistance, indicating its ability to resist heat transfer. A higher R-value signifies better insulation performance because the material is more effective at slowing heat flow. The R-value depends on the type, thickness, and density of the insulation material, such as fiberglass, foam, or cellulose. Each inch of insulation typically provides an R-value between 3 and 8. There is no single universal R-value; the optimal choice depends on your climate zone. Colder climates require a much higher R-value than warmer ones to maintain energy efficiency, keep the home warm in winter and cool in summer, and manage costs.

If you have central air conditioning, it’s fine to run your AC all day if that’s what you want—as long as the AC unit is in good condition. But if your AC runs constantly when you don’t want it to, there may be a problem with your system (like the ones we’ve mentioned above). Window AC units and wall air conditioners aren’t as powerful as central AC, so you should only run those kinds of air conditioners for eight to 12 hours at a time.