Energy costs continue to rise, leaving people scrambling to pay their monthly bills. Many people are searching for ways to reduce their energy consumption but aren’t sure where to start. Several steps can be taken to achieve this goal. Try the following tips to reduce energy costs today.
Home Energy Audits
Learn the actual cost of using electricity with the help of a home energy audit. This audit finds inefficiencies in the home’s energy usage. Any areas where energy is being lost can be improved. Many homes need additional insulation, while others benefit from upgraded appliances that are more efficient. Contact the energy provider to learn if they offer free or discount audits to begin seeing energy savings quickly.
Energy-Efficient Appliances
Outdated appliances can consume a significant amount of energy. Upgrading to modern Energy-Star-rated appliances can reduce energy usage while improving performance. Consider each device’s energy efficiency, size, and functionality when purchasing new kitchen appliances. Energy-efficient appliances reduce energy consumption while lowering electricity bills.
Smart Thermostats
A smart thermostat can help control heating and cooling costs. These devices learn the owner’s schedule and preferences and adjust the temperature accordingly. Furthermore, the owner can adjust the thermostat remotely using a smartphone app. Experts say homeowners can save up to 10% every year on their heating and cooling costs with the addition of a smart thermostat.
Window and Door Seals
Homeowners must check their windows and doors to prevent air from leaking. Any air that escapes the home causes the HVAC system to work harder to keep the house at the desired temperature. To help seal leaks, install weather stripping around doors and caulking around windows. In addition, the home installation needs to be examined to determine if additional layers need to be added for optimal protection.
LED Lighting
LED lights use significantly less electricity than incandescent light bulbs. Furthermore, LED lights last much longer than their counterparts. Switching to LED bulbs can reduce energy usage by as much as 75%, allowing for significant monthly savings on energy bills.
Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans improve air circulation in the home. During the winter, a homeowner can reverse the fan’s direction to push warm air down, so the heating system doesn’t need to work as hard. During the summer, the ceiling fan helps cool the room so that the thermostat can be lowered.
Phantom Energy
Electronic devices often use power even when they are not turned on. Phantom energy consumption remains a problem, but it can be easily combated. Unplug devices when not in use or invest in smart power strips that cut power to devices not in use.
Cold Water Wash
Water heaters account for a large portion of energy bills. Switching to cold water when washing clothes significantly reduces energy consumption—today’s detergents clean clothes effectively even in cold water. To save even more money, only run full loads.
Solar Panels
Solar panels can reduce energy consumption for decades to come. Learn about tax incentives and rebates for installing solar panels to save even more. Homeowners who harness the renewable energy offered by the sun increase their energy Independence while reducing their monthly expenses.
Reduce Water Heater Temperature
Most homeowners have their water heaters set to 140° Fahrenheit. Lower the setting to 120° Fahrenheit and see energy savings. The lower setting also minimizes the risk of scalding while extending the water heater’s lifespan.
Use these tips today to save money on energy bills immediately. Although the savings may appear small initially, they quickly increase over time. Every step taken to reduce energy consumption will contribute to an energy-efficient home.
