Have you assessed how efficiently your home is running? With a few simple changes, you can easily convert your home into an energy efficient home, reduce your carbon footprint drastically and, more importantly, keep some money in your pocket!
We’ve compiled a list of 10 places to check and things you can do to achieve your home’s energy full efficiency potential.
Cooling and Heating Patterns
According to the U.S. Department of Emergency, nearly half of your utility bill goes toward the heating and cooling of your home every year. While relying on your AC or heating system may be inevitable some days, you can also cut costs by making a few easy energy-saving adjustments:
- Block direct sunlight by simply closing windows, blinds and shades during the day.
- Install ceiling fans and replace lighting where you can with them.
- Use windows and doors for natural ventilation during the cooler times of the day.
Dig Into Your Thermostat
Get into the habit of adjusting your thermostat before leaving your home. Energy experts note that homeowners can save as much as 10% a year on heating and cooling their home by simply adjusting 7-8 degrees for only 8 hours of the day. Technology advances have made it possible to even have this set up on a schedule to take the hassle out of it for your daily routine.
Manage Your Water Usage
For many homes, heating the water you use can be the largest energy sucker. Between washing clothes, loading up the dishwasher, using the kitchen faucet and shower, the average homeowner uses 64 gallons of hot water a day. Reducing your water usage can do wonders for your wallet, here are a few things you can do to start:
- Opt for a shower instead of a bath and minimize your shower to under 10 minutes.
- Install a low-flow shower head or toilet.
- Repair leaky faucets in both your kitchen and bathroom areas.
- If remodeling is in the works, consider the location of your water heater. Shorter pipes can save energy and water.
- Insulate hot water pipes.
HVAC Maintenance
Scheduling your regular maintenance checkups on your heating and cooling system can save you hundreds. A regular tune up will help improve energy efficiency and keep it operating at its peak performance and make your appliances last.
Windows and Doors
Improper sealing of your windows and doors are the fastest way to lose energy. If you have older windows, it may be a good idea to look into some before winter deals to replace them. Also, check the seal on your windows and doors. Air leaks are a common cause for poor efficiency and a very easy fix! Check for any holes to be filled and sealed properly.
Air Filter Maintenance
Remember to check your air filters monthly, especially in the heat of summer or dead of winter when you’re relying heavily on you HVAC system. The typical timeframe for changing your air filter is 3 months but varies by usage. Dirty air filters slow airflow and reduce energy efficiency in your heating and cooling system.
Proper Insulation
If you have an older home, you may be losing more energy than you’d expect due to your insulation. If your home does not have the recommended minimum levels of insulation, you could be losing heat through your ceiling and your walls.
Energy.gov recommends proper installation from the roof down to the foundation in areas such as the attic, your duct work, exterior walls, foundation, and crawlspaces.
Energy Saving Lighting
One of the cheapest replacements and easiest places to start creating an energy efficient home is with lighting. Energy certified lights can last longer saving you money on replacement costs and produce less heat than traditional lighting. (AKA: Saving you money!!)
Manage Your Appliance & Electronics
Appliances and electronics account for up to 20% of your household energy bills, according to International Association of Certified Home Inspectors.
Turning off computers when not in use, unplugging unused chargers, turning off lights before leaving the house and switching to energy-star rated appliances/electronics can all help you save on your energy costs yearly.
Switch to a Tankless Water Heater
Making the switch from your current appliances to ENERGY STAR® qualified appliances will make a drastic dent in your energy efficiency of your home. To dig into that deeper, we’re taking a look specifically at switching to a Tankless Water Heater. Switching to a Tankless Water Heater is efficient up to 96% and saves energy by only heating water when you need it.
