Today we’ll talk about how to make your home energy efficient. We live in a century where it’s hard to imagine a day without electricity. And with each passing day, due to different reasons, people start thinking about saving energy more and more. Not only does it save you money, but it also decreases pollution by wasting less primary fuel like coal, oil, and gas.
So, how to make your home energy efficient? First of, you need to find out what’s consuming the most energy at your home. It can be heating/cooling, lighting, or appliances. That will help you figure out the most efficient ways of how to save energy.
Eliminate air leaks
As a matter of fact, 25% of your total heating costs is usually a result of drafts around windows, doors, air vents, and even electrical outlets. Eliminate air leaks at your home by caulking and weather-striping all the windows, doors, and dryer vents. This simple solution will result in significant savings. And don’t forget to check insulated plates for electrical outlets to protect your home from drafts for 99.99%.
Install a programmable thermostat
With programmable thermostats you can create separate temperature zones in your home and set a daily heating/cooling schedule. For example, for the time that you’re not at home, you can set the thermostat to lower the heating level. Check out our Honeywell Lyric Thermostat Review: The Good and the Bad to learn more.
There are thermostats that allow you to control the temperature from your computer, tablet, smart phone, or even iWatch. We are talking about wireless thermostats that can be controlled remotely via wi-fi. All you need is one of those automation systems, like Smart Bridge Pro from Lutron. With that tiny device you’ll be able to control thermostats, lights, and shades at your home from anywhere you are. You can do all of that using Lutron App and a Wi-Fi connection. Find more about Smart Home Lighting Automation With the Lutron Smart Bridge Pro from our post.
Use LED light bulbs
Even though LED light bulbs are more expensive than regular light bulbs, but they’re totally worth it. Light-emitting diode light bulbs last up to 10 times longer when compared to standard ones, and can use up to 75% less electricity. Still looking for the ways to make your home energy efficient? — Get some LED light bulbs and enjoy energy savings.
Remove or replace your old second refrigerator
We all know that it’s very convenient to have an extra refrigerator. But the truth is that your old, inefficient refrigerator can be one of the biggest electricity users in your home. If you don’t feel like spending more than $10 a month in electricity for your old fridge, just purchase a new one with the ENERGY STAR® label. It will make your home more energy efficient and result in lower electricity consumption.
Look for the ENERGY STAR® name & label
When making your buying decision, always check for ENERGY STAR® label. The label is an international symbol that stands for energy efficient products in the United States, Canada, Japan, Australia and many other countries. ENERGY STAR® is the simple choice for energy efficiency. Start saving money and protecting our climate with ENERGY STAR® products today!
Install motion sensor switches & timers
With motion sensor switches & timers there is no need to leave your outside lights on for long periods of time. The motion switches come with occupancy/vacancy sensors. Every time when somebody walks by, the motion sensor will turn the lights on automatically. After a pre-set period of time with no motion, the sensor switch will turn the lights off.
As we mentioned above, you can install the Lutron Smart Bridge Pro home automation system and control the lights remotely from wherever you are. All you need is a Lutron App and a Wi-Fi connection. Not only can you save energy with remote lighting control, but also can use it as protection from thieves by making your home look occupied when you are away.
Consider replacing your windows
Your windows can cause you to lose a lot of cool air during the summer months and heat during the winter months. Older types of windows are usually not as energy efficient as you might think they would be. You may consider caulking and weather-striping around your windows to help prevent air leaks. Also, if you keep your curtains and blinds open during the day in colder months, you’ll be able to enjoy the warmth that won’t cost you a dime. For kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms with no access to daylight, we suggest using sun tunnels. You won’t believe how natural dynamic daylight can bring your indoor spaces to life in ways that a simple lamp can’t.
Consider solar panels
Solar panels are expensive but can be a great investment for your home. Believe it or not they can actually help cut down on electricity costs. You can install them on your rooftops and they will help you produce your own electricity. Adding solar panels is something to consider when looking for ways to make your home energy efficient. This cost effective solution is not for everyone, but pretty soon you’ll be impressed with how many people will opt to install solar panels on their homes.
Wash your laundry in cold water
Save energy and money by washing all of your laundry in cold water. You can save over $14 a month if you switch both wash and rinse from warm to cold water.
Take advantage of the tax incentives for energy-efficient home improvements
Make your home more energy efficient and get up to 30% of the cost of home improvements which include new windows, insulation, air conditioning, or heating to a maximum of $1,500. Sounds incredible? Because it is! That’s money back in your pocket in addition to your energy consumption savings.
There are many different ways to make your home energy efficient. You can start by checking our lists of Smart Products for Outside Your Home and Smart Products for Inside Your Home.
