A Guide to Saving Energy in Your Home
By making your home energy-efficient, you’ll save money on monthly utility bills. You can also reduce your carbon footprint and conserve valuable resources. During the summer and winter months, energy bills increase in most households. Here are five tips to help you save energy in your home.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
Programmable thermostats adjust the temperature automatically, depending on your schedule. Set the device to regulate how hot or cold your living spaces are when you are sleeping or even away from home. Installing a programmable thermostat is simple and helps you save energy without upgrading your HVAC system.
Save Energy by Choosing Energy-Efficient Appliances for Your Home
Appliances are responsible for over 10% of household energy consumption. When you are purchasing a new appliance, take into account the purchase price and the annual cost of operation for that device.
New, ENERGY STAR®certified appliances may cost more initially but have lower annual operating costs. They will eventually pay for themselves in energy savings. The ENERGY STAR® label is a guarantee that the appliance will use considerably less power than other models.
Energy-Efficient Windows
Installing energy-efficient windows can help you save 10% – 25% on your power bills. Replacing the windows in your home is a costly upgrade, however, replacing single-pane windows with double-pane windows will save you a considerable amount each month.
Heat increase via windows is often a problem, especially in warmer climates. Coated windows reduce heat gain by reflecting light and reducing the amount of thermal energy that enters your house.
Clean and Upgrade your HVAC system
Heating and cooling a home accounts for 40% – 60% of the home’s energy consumption. A dirty HVAC system consumes more energy as it struggles to maintain the set temperature.
Change the filter in your heating and cooling system at least every 30 to 90 days. Occasionally, hire a professional to clean the unit and perform maintenance. This will help the HVAC system function optimally.
Reduce Your Hot Water Usage to Save Energy in Your Home
The more people in your household, the more water heating will contribute to the total energy consumption. Hot water is used for bathing, washing dishes, doing laundry, and cleaning around the house.
Purchase an energy-saving water heater and insulate it. Make an effort to use less hot water and turn down the thermostat on your water heater. Only run the dishwasher and washing machine when you have a full load. You’ll save water and energy.
Saving energy in your home will help lower energy bills. Even simple changes like using cold water for laundry will reduce the amount of energy consumed.
Carolina Homechek offers home inspections to customers in Mecklenburg and the surrounding counties in North Carolina. If you’re buying or selling a home, contact us to request our services.