These days the idea of going green has become more popular. There are eco-friendly cars, green clothing, and even ways to go green in your personal life such as producing less waste or recycling. If you want to reduce your carbon footprint, one of the best places to start is in your home becoming more energy efficient.

Keep reading for 7 proven ways to make your home more energy efficient and healthier for the environment.

1. Adjust Your Thermostat

Most homeowners fall into the habit of leaving their thermostat on the same temperature no matter if they’re away from home or sleeping. One way to make your home more energy efficient is to adjust your thermostat. When you’re away from home, there’s no need to maintain the same temperature. In fact, lowering your thermostat by 10 to 15 degrees while you’re at work can save up to 15% on energy costs each year.

Having to remember to adjust your thermostat before leaving for work can be a challenge and since we can all be forgetful in the morning, consider having a small thermometer installed. These systems allow you to control your HVAC system settings through your mobile app.

2. Seal Your Windows

Leaky windows are one of the biggest culprits of wasted heating and cooling energy. If your windows are leaking, it’s much harder for your HVAC system to heat and cool your home. Fixing air leaks is a simple and effective way of making your home more energy efficient.

You can fix leaky windows by adding weatherstripping around the frames. A new beading of silicone caulk can also be useful in sealing your windows from drafts. For serious drafts, applying shrink film over your windows is an effective measure.

However, this is just a stopgap to temporarily fix the issue. If your windows are leaking, it’s best to replace them altogether. Of course, this can cost thousands of dollars so be sure to consider applying for home renovation loans to cover these expenses.

3. Avoid Space Heaters

Running a space heater in a cold basement or a chilly room in your home provides you the warmth you want to be cozy and comfortable. But, space heaters are extremely expensive to run. Running a space heater for just a few hours can cost hundreds of dollars.

To stay warm in chilly parts of your home:

• Use a thick winter blanket
• Wear layers
• Put on a pair of socks
• Keep your head warm

Your body works wonders in keeping itself warm, especially when you’re dressed appropriately! This way you can avoid cranking up the thermostat or having to use a space ehater.

If using a space heater is a must, invest in one that’s energy-efficient.

4. Replace Incandescent Bulbs

Since 2014, manufacturers have stopped the production of 40-watt and 60-watt incandescent bulbs. This was done in hopes that homeowners would instead switch to more energy effective options like light-emitting diode (LED) bulb, compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), or Halogen bulbs.

In your home, chances are that there are dozens of bulbs on your ceiling, in lamps, and maybe even under your kitchen cabinets. Replacing these bulbs in your home is an inexpensive way to spend less money on energy costs.

5. Buy Energy-Efficient Appliances

These days, there isn’t one appliance that isn’t designed to be energy-efficient. From stoves to microwaves to washers and dryers, many of today’s top manufacturers have created designs that use less electricity or less water to decrease your home’s carbon footprint. Since appliances can be costly, it may be best to start with a single room, such as the laundry room. An energy efficient washer and dryer typically cost around $500-$600 each. You may also be able to save money by purchasing a package deal.

6. Unplug

Many of us have fallen into the habit of leaving things plugged in because it’s convenient, but, leaving items plugged into the wall uses energy. So, when you’re done with the Keurig or the toaster, unplug them! The same stands for phone chargers, lamps, fans, and other small items.

7. Open the Windows

Depending on where you live, there are some seasons when Mother Nature just doesn’t cooperate, but, on those mild days, cut off the HVAC system and let in home natural air. Opening the windows is a good way to get rid of stale air while also keeping your home cool. On those days when it’s a little warm, open windows on opposite sides of your home and turn on a fan to create a cross breeze. This is a low-energy way of keeping your home at a comfortable temperature.

Conclusion

Having an energy efficient home doesn’t have to cost thousands of dollars. There are small changes that you can make as a homeowner to use less energy. In turn, not only can you expect lower gas and electric charges, you can also do your part in taking care of the earth.

Categories: Real Estate