Whether your goal is to cut down on your carbon footprint or you want to reduce your power bills, there are easy ways to save energy in your home. You will notice a difference in your power bills by making some simple changes. If you have no idea where to begin, the following tips offer a place to start.
Upgrade Light Bulbs to Save Energy in Your Home
Traditional incandescent light bulbs consume a lot of electricity compared to the alternatives, such as light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs and compact fluorescent lights. Incandescent bulbs also tend to burn out more quickly than these energy-efficient alternatives. Energy-efficient light bulbs use 25-80% less energy than traditional ones. While energy-efficient bulbs may be more expensive, they last longer and consume less power, saving energy and money over the long term.
Install a Smart Thermostat
We are fortunate to be living in an age of frequent innovations and new technology that helps save money at home. A smart thermostat is one of these innovations. Invest in a smart thermostat and you will be able to set your HVAC system based on your schedule and habits. This will reduce the energy wasted by heating or cooling your home when no one is there.
Change Your Habits
To save energy in your home pay attention to how you consume energy in your home and adjust these behaviors. For instance, something as simple as switching off appliances and lights when not in use will lower your power bill. In warm months, don’t cook during the day. This will reduce the power that the air conditioner uses as it works to keep indoor temperatures down. Use your appliances less frequently by hanging clothes to dry and waiting until you have a full load to wash dishes to run the machine.
Upgrade Your Windows
Homeowners often underestimate the impact windows and window treatments have on your energy consumption. Minimize heat gain in the summer by lowering the amount of radiant heat that gets into your house. Dark window treatments, shutters, and shades block the sunlight during the day. When it’s cooler, close the blinds and curtains at night because they offer an added layer of insulation. This prevents energy leakage and heat loss.
Invest in New Appliances to Save Energy at Home
Old appliances consume a lot of energy. This is particularly true for the appliances that run most of the time, like your refrigerator and the heating and cooling system in your home. Upgrade your home appliances to energy-saving models to save money on your monthly power bills. Consult with an expert at your local home improvement store for recommendations on the best energy-saving appliances on the market.
Go Solar
Install solar panels to cut down the amount of energy used in your house. Although the initial investment costs might be high, you will save money in the long-run.
While you aren’t likely to reduce your household’s energy consumption to zero, these tips will save energy in your home and help reduce utility bills.
Delta Home Inspection offers home inspections to Mobile and Baldwin Counties in Alabama. If you’re buying or selling a home, contact us to schedule our services.