How to Make your Home More Energy Efficient
American residential areas in 2020 utilized up to 10,715 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy consumption per customer every year. This equates to 893 kWh of electricity use per month. Given these numbers, many agree that there is ample opportunity to conserve energy and reduce consumption in the residential sector.
Most people know that they need to save energy, but they may not know how easy it can be. In fact, making your home more energy efficient doesn’t have to involve a lot of work or money. You can start by making home improvements and then move on to bigger projects if you want. Here are a few tips to get you started:
Get an Energy Audit
An energy audit will help you figure out where your home is losing energy and give you ideas for how to fix the problem. This will not only let you determine your energy efficiency goals but also provide an estimate of how much money you can save by making improvements. For example, suppose an energy audit reveals that your home needs better insulation. In that case, you can make sure to add this to your list of projects. Following the audit results and recommendations will help you save money in the long run and make your home more comfortable.
Replace your lightbulbs with LEDs
This is one of the easiest ways to save energy. LED bulbs use less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, and they last much longer. These bulbs are also becoming more affordable and they’re available for interior and exterior home use, so there’s no excuse not to make the switch. You can find LEDs in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you’re sure to find ones that fit your needs.
Get a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat can save you a lot of money on your energy bills because it allows you to set the temperature for different times of the day. This will also make your home more comfortable. Some thermostats are also controlled by your phone, so you can adjust the temperature even when you’re not at home. For instance, during colder months, you can set the temperature lower when you’re not home and higher when you are.
Upgrade Your Windows
Your windows play a huge role in helping your home become energy efficient. This is because they let in natural light, which can help heat your home, and they also help keep the heat in during the winter. This is why you need to ensure they’re in top condition. In some cases, windows need to be repaired or replaced. For instance, if your windows are over 20 years old, then the more you need them replaced. In that case, you should hire window replacement services to help you get windows that are more energy efficient and will help improve the look of your home. This is important because professionals will know how to properly install the windows so that they are sealed and will not let in any drafts.
Seal any Holes or Cracks
Similarly, your doors can also help improve your home’s energy efficiency. Drafty doors can let in a lot of cold air, making your home uncomfortable. You can prevent this by making sure your doors are well-sealed and by getting door sweeps to put at the bottom of the doors. Moreover, one of the biggest sources of energy loss is air leakage. You can stop this by sealing any cracks or holes in your home’s exterior. This will help keep the heat in during the winter and the cool air in during the summer.
Use Solar Panels
Solar panels are a great way to save energy because they allow you to generate your own electricity by using the sun’s rays. You can install them on your roof and connect them to your home’s electrical system. This way, you can generate enough electricity to power your entire home. Alternatively, you can also use solar panels to heat water for your home. This is a great way to save energy and money because you’ll no longer have to use electricity or gas to heat water. This is an excellent long-term investment because it will eventually pay for itself in the long run.
Using solar panels to power your home is a smart and eco-friendly way to reduce your carbon footprint. This clean energy source reduces dependence on traditional, nonrenewable energy sources and can greatly decrease your monthly energy bills. When choosing home solar panels, buy from a reputable brand and work with professional installers to ensure optimal performance and efficiency. By making the switch to solar energy, you can not only save money on energy costs but also make a positive impact on the environment.
Making your home more energy efficient is a great way to save money on your monthly bills and help the environment. Doing your part to reduce energy consumption can be as simple as making a few changes around your home. This will not only save you money but also help preserve our planet’s resources.