Whether you own or rent your home, you are probably concerned about your energy use and costs. Improving your home’s energy efficiency has three major benefits. It can reduce your monthly utility bill, improve your comfort, and protect the environment.
Making your home more energy efficient is the first step to a greener, healthier home. It can also help you better manage your budget. Here are five simple ways to save energy in your home.
Heating and Cooling
Half of your home’s energy use involves heating and cooling. Smart choices in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) can have big effects on your energy bill and comfort level.
Change the air filters monthly, especially during the summer and winter months. A dirty filter can slow air flow and strain the HVAC system, which wastes energy. Regular system tune ups can greatly improve energy efficiency.
Sealing and Insulation
When it comes to heating and cooling, HVAC equipment with Energy Star ratings are the best energy savers. Programmable thermostats are another consideration. None of these are effective, however, unless you properly seal and insulate your home’s ductwork. Insulation keeps your cooled or heated air from escaping through holes, leaks, and poor duct connections.
Lighting
Lighting accounts for a large part of the energy use in your home. Smart lighting choices reduce energy consumption and utility bills. Compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs are good choices for all of your lighting needs. Use them to replace regular, incandescent bulbs or halogen bulbs.
Consider using timers on your indoor lights to keep them shut off during the day. Motion detector lights work well for outdoor lighting. Use fluorescent tubes for your garage or workshop.
Appliances
Your home appliances use a lot of energy. Replace your old models with Energy Star appliances that have power-save switches. Make wise choices when you use your appliances. For example, wash full loads of laundry or dishes, and heat your small meals in a microwave oven.
Home Security
Your home security system is another way to save energy in your home. In addition to the usual home security services, many companies offer energy management services according to a Los Angeles home security system expert from www.vivint.com. Contact your security company to find out how your system can help you to energy.
To ensure enough energy for the future, you must use it wisely now. A few smart choices can help you do just that. Make your home energy efficient and you can lessen the environmental impact, improve your comfort, and save money in the process.
