10 Ways to Improve Your Home’s Energy Efficiency

By carikdans On Apr 1, 2022

As the world continues to experience the effects of climate change, many people are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint. One of the easiest ways to do this is by improving your home’s energy efficiency. Not only will you be doing your part to help the environment, but you’ll also save money on your energy bills. In this article, we’ll take a look at 10 ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency.

Power Up Your Home’s Efficiency

Install Solar Panels
Solar panels are a great way to harness the power of the sun and convert it into electricity. While the upfront costs can be high, over time, solar panels can save you a significant amount of money on your energy bills.
Upgrade Your Insulation
Proper insulation can help keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Upgrading your insulation can also help prevent drafts and reduce the amount of energy needed to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
Switch to LED Light Bulbs
LED light bulbs use significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. They also last longer, which means you’ll save money on replacements over time.
Install Smart Thermostats
Smart thermostats can help you control your home’s temperature more efficiently. They can learn your habits and adjust the temperature accordingly, which can save you money on your energy bills.
Use Energy-Efficient Appliances
When shopping for new appliances, look for energy-efficient models. These appliances use less energy and can help you save money in the long run.

10 Tips to Save On Energy Bills

Turn Off Lights When You Leave a Room
This may seem like a small thing, but it can add up over time. Get in the habit of turning off lights when you leave a room to save energy.
Unplug Electronics When Not in Use
Even when electronics are turned off, they can still use energy if they’re plugged in. Unplug electronics when you’re not using them to save energy.
Use a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat can help you save money on your energy bills by automatically adjusting the temperature in your home.
Seal Windows and Doors
If there are gaps around your windows and doors, air can escape, which can make it harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. Sealing these gaps can help prevent this.
Use Natural Light
Instead of turning on lights during the day, open up your curtains and let natural light in. This can help reduce the amount of energy you use.
Use Fans Instead of Air Conditioning
On mild days, consider using fans instead of air conditioning. This can help reduce your energy usage and save you money on your energy bills.
Don’t Overuse Hot Water
Heating water can use a lot of energy. Try to limit your hot water usage by taking shorter showers or turning down the temperature on your water heater.
Use Energy Star-Certified Products
Energy Star-certified products meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Look for these products when shopping for new appliances.
Keep Your HVAC System Maintained
Regular maintenance on your HVAC system can help it run more efficiently, which can save you money on your energy bills.
Use a Clothesline to Dry Clothes
Instead of using a dryer, consider using a clothesline to dry your clothes. This can help reduce your energy usage and save you money on your energy bills.

Energize Your Home and Your Wallet

Get an Energy Audit
An energy audit can help you identify areas where your home is wasting energy. Once you know where the problems are, you can take steps to fix them and save money on your energy bills.
Plant Trees
Planting trees around your home can help block the sun in the summer, which can help reduce the amount of energy needed to cool your home.
Install Window Film
Window film can help keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter by preventing heat and cold from escaping through your windows.
Install a Tankless Water Heater
A tankless water heater can help you save money on your energy bills by heating water only when you need it.
Use a Solar Water Heater
A solar water heater uses the power of the sun to heat your water. While the upfront costs can be high, over time, a solar water heater can save you a significant amount of money on your energy bills.

Spark Joy with a More Efficient Home

Declutter Your Home
A cluttered home can make it harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. By getting rid of unnecessary items, you can free up space and make it easier to keep your home energy-efficient.
Use Energy-Efficient Landscaping
Using energy-efficient landscaping techniques, such as planting trees strategically to block the sun, can help reduce your energy usage and save you money on your energy bills.
Choose Energy-Efficient Window Treatments
Window treatments, such as curtains and blinds, can help reduce the amount of heat and cold that enters your home. Look for energy-efficient options when shopping for window treatments.
Use Natural Cleaning Products
Many cleaning products contain harmful chemicals that can be bad for the environment and your health. Using natural cleaning products can help reduce your carbon footprint and keep your home healthy.
Invest in Energy-Efficient Upgrades
Investing in energy-efficient upgrades, such as solar panels or a tankless water heater, can help you save money on your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint.

Before you can make your home more energy efficient you need to know where you currently stand A socalled energy audit in which an energy professional inspects your home toThe Home Energy Score is a national rating system developed by the US Department of Energy which provides a rating of your home39s current Efficiency as well as a list of improvements and potential savings The Score reflects the energy Efficiency of a home based on the home39s structure and heating cooling and hot water systemsHow to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient Change your light bulbs to LEDs Wash your clothes in cold water if possible Air seal your home Sealing cracks gaps and leaks and adding insulation can save up to 10 on home heating and cooling costs Clean or replace all filters in your home regularlyThe

Energy Saver guide offers tips for saving money and energy at home and on the road By following just a few of the simple tips in the Energy Saver guide you can make your home more comfortable and easier to heat and coolwhile you save money We bring you the latest information on energysaving efficient technologiesDid you know that 9 out of 10 homes in the US are underinsulated Sealing air leaks around your home and adding insulation are two of the most costeffective ways to improve energy Efficiency and comfort in your home By tackling both projects you can maximize your comfort and save up to 10 on your annual energy bills1 Adjust the Temperature Even the smallest changes in temperature can greatly impact your home39s energy Efficiency Adjusting the thermostat to 68 degrees or lower during

winter days and 78 degrees or higher during the summer can help you use less energy Natural sunlight can also have a big effect on your home39s energy EfficiencyA waterfall or fountain in the garden creates a cool spot Scientists at Climate Adapt estimate it can lower the surrounding temperature by more than 30F 69tmp 4 Think Solar Harnessing the sun39s rays is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to use landscaping to increase your home39s energy EfficiencyBenchmarking is a great way to start seeing where you can make the greatest improvements in energy Efficiency The Energy Star Portfolio Manager is a free webbased tool you can use to compare your buildings to other commercial buildings in North America Focus on insulation

Improving your home’s energy efficiency doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. By following these tips, you can make your home more energy-efficient and save money on your energy bills. Doing your part to reduce your carbon footprint is not only good for the environment, but it’s also good for your wallet. So why not get started today?