There are plenty of energy-efficiency upgrades you can make to your home that will improve your electric bill year-round. Homeowners can take a few simple steps to save on their energy bills. Take a look at some easy, effective ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency and save on your energy bills.
1. Upgrade your windows.
Properly sealed windows keep cool air in during the summer and warm air in during the winter. Inspect the seals of all windows and make sure there are no drafts. Adding weather stripping or caulking can improve window seals and prevent air leaks. It’s a good idea to replace old, drafty windows with energy-efficient ones that result in long-term energy savings.
2. Maintain your HVAC system.
Keeping up with the regular maintenance of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is key to ensuring it performs energy-efficiently. Changing out the air filters, cleaning out the ductwork, checking wires for corrosion, and ensuring the coils are leak-free helps avoid serious problems down the road. A properly functioning HVAC unit helps improve indoor air quality, reduces the presence of allergens that encourage allergies, improves humidity, and keeps your energy bills in check.
Hearing strange noises, clunks, loose parts, the need for constant repairs, and noticing mold and mildew are signs that you may need a new HVAC system. Spectrum Air Conditioning has years of experience replacing old HVAC units with new systems that are Energy Star-certified. Their service technicians offer air conditioner and furnace repair, maintenance, and complete replacement, indoor air quality advice, smart controls and thermostats, air duct cleaning, and preventive maintenance. Having an HVAC technician perform routine maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs and ensure a working HVAC system for years to come.
In addition to maintaining your heating and cooling system, it’s a good idea to adjust your thermostat. A programmable thermostat allows you to adjust the temperature settings throughout the day. Lowering the temperature when you aren’t home can save you a lot on your utility bill.
3. Improve your insulation.
Improving your home’s insulation is an effective way to see significant cost savings on your electric bill. Attics and basements are notorious for letting in drafts. Adding new and improved insulation can be done on a budget and will help save you hundreds in the long run. The type and amount of insulation you need to use depends on the size of your home and the type of climate.
4. Use less water.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) advises that simple changes to water consumption can help homeowners save hundreds on their energy bills. Simple things like not running the water when brushing your teeth, taking a shower instead of a bath, and turning off the water when washing dishes can save a significant amount of water. Installing low-flow showerheads is a great way to improve water efficiency and reduce the amount of water used by almost half.
Avoid running your dishwasher and washing machines unless full, and be willing to adjust the temperature settings of your washer. Using cooler water to wash your clothes reduces the amount of energy needed by the water heater and washer.
5. Avoid phantom energy usage.
Most homeowners don’t realize that their electronic devices and appliances continue to pull power even when turned off. Phantom energy usage contributes up to 10 percent of your energy bill. It’s a good idea to unplug all appliances when not in use to avoid phantom energy consumption.
Upgrading your windows, maintaining your HVAC system, improving your insulation, reducing water usage, and avoiding phantom energy use are all effective ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency.
