Making your home more energy-efficient doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Small updates and changes can make a big impact on your energy consumption…and your wallet! And although the cost of running a household continues to rise, there are plenty of budget-friendly ways to improve efficiency and save money without sacrificing comfort.
Below are 9 simple (and affordable) ways to reduce energy waste and lower your utility bills:
Seal Up Those Air Leaks.
Weatherstripping around doors and windows will prevent drafts. You may also want to consider applying caulk to seal any cracks and gaps in walls, windows or baseboards. Another easy fix is installing a door sweep on exterior doors to block cold air from entering.
Upgrade to LED Lighting.
If you can replace incandescent bulbs with LED ones, you’ll be using up to 80% less energy and using bulbs that last much longer. A motion sensor or timer is also a great way to save electricity with outdoor lighting to prevent unnecessary energy use.
Be Smart About Your Ceiling Fan.
There is a right way and a wrong way to use your ceiling fan! In the summer, set ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise to create a cooling effect. In the winter, reverse them to spin clockwise at a low speed to circulate warm air.
Another great hack is to insulate your water heater and pipes. Start by wrapping your water heater in an insulation blanket (especially if it’s older) to reduce heat loss. Further, insulated hot water pipes can retain heat, reducing the energy needed to heat water.
Swap Your Taps!
Low-flow showerheads and faucets are a great way to reduce water consumption and the energy it takes to heat water. Did you know that many models provide strong water pressure while cutting water use by 20-30%?
Use Power Strips to Eliminate Phantom Energy Use.
A lot of devices today continue to draw power even when they’re turned off. By plugging electronics into a smart power strip, the devices’ power will be automatically shut off when not in use.
Get Creative with Your Windows.
Reflective window film and insulated curtains may not always match your carefully curated decor, but they do have practical benefits when it comes to saving energy. Reflective window film helps block heat in the summer while retaining warmth in the winter, reducing the strain on your HVAC system. Thermal curtains or blackout drapes provide an extra layer of insulation, minimizing energy loss and enhancing indoor comfort all year round.
Clean and Maintain HVAC Filters.
Dirty air filters force your HVAC system to work harder. Replace or clean filters every 1-3 months and have your HVAC system serviced annually. Ensuring that it’s running efficiently all year will save you money in the end.
Wash Clothes in Cold and Hang to Dry!
Did you know that about 90% of the energy used by a washing machine goes into heating the water? Using cold water detergent can help clean effectively while saving energy. Air drying clothes saves electricity and helps fabrics last longer.
By implementing these simple and affordable changes, homeowners can significantly reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills! If you’re looking to take it a step further and renovate your home to reduce its environmental impact, connect with us! We’d love to hear from you and offer some professional and honest insights.
