You don't have to spend a fortune to make your home more energy-efficient. Many homeowners choose to add upgrades when remodeling, but why wait? Sometimes, a few changes may be all you need to cut down on your energy bill. Consider these 7 tips for a more energy-efficient home.
Windows and doorways are some of the most accessible places for hot or cold air to escape from your home. A cold draft seeping into the house makes it harder for your furnace to keep up. Consider switching out old wood windows with vinyl replacements. They'll create a tighter seal around your house. Double pane windows are standard, but some homeowners have chosen triple pane windows for even more efficiency.
Window curtains aren't just for decoration. Close the curtains to keep out the hot sunlight during the summer and provide a barrier from winter temperatures. Blackout panels provide even more shade during the summer, which makes it easier for your HVAC system to work properly.
Set the washing machine temperature to cold and keep it there. You can save an average of $63 dollars a year by not forcing your water heater to work so hard. While you’re at it, turn the temperature on your water heater down to 130 degrees F.
The thermostat in your home can be an area of contention. Choosing a temperature that your family is comfortable with is important. But, turning the thermostat down a few degrees in the winter and up a few degrees in the summer can save you big time. Consider switching to a programmable smart thermostat to change temperatures throughout the day. Smart technology thermostats can also connect to your phone and give you instant access to your home’s primary energy source.
You use lighting to set the mood or to create a cozy space, but lighting can soak up a lot of electricity. Simply switch out older light bulbs for more energy-efficient LED options. These may cost more upfront but should provide enough energy savings over the years to save you a good amount of money. LED lights are also brighter, so you won't have to turn on as many of them.
Ceiling fans are another underappreciated fixture. They move the air around and reduce the need for air conditioning. Even in hotter climates, the fans work with the air conditioning, so the HVAC doesn't have to work as hard. Ceiling fans also circulate and freshen the air by pushing more of it through the furnace filter.
Heating and cooling systems are reliant upon the intake of clean air. Consider changing your air filters monthly. Doing so can help your HVAC system work better as well as clean the air within your home. There are also many indoor houseplants that help purify the air.
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