With prices for the consumption of energy continually on the rise, you’ll want to find ways to save money in your home. You’ve probably heard phrases like energy-efficient or energy-saving before. Have you started implementing any of these products or features yet? If you haven’t, then now is the perfect time to start thinking about where changes can be made. Consider these ideas the next time you think about renovations.
1. Check Your Heating and Cooling Systems
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, air conditioners are found in 75% of homes in the United States. The annual cost to run these systems is about $29 billion, and they use around 6% of all the electricity produced in the country. That’s a lot of money, especially when you consider that there are plenty of ways to reduce the energy your AC unit uses. One of the easiest ways to save is using a programmable thermostat. These thermostats allow you to adjust the temperature in your home at different times of the day automatically, so you’re not cooling an empty house.
Another way to save energy with your AC is by properly maintaining it. This means changing the filters regularly, keeping the coils clean, and having them serviced by a professional regularly. By keeping your air conditioner in good working condition, you can ensure it’s running at peak efficiency, saving you cash. You should also do the same types of services and maintenance for your furnace, as it uses a lot of energy during the colder winter months.
2. Inspect Your Plumbing
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, 90 gallons or more of water is wasted daily in 10% of houses in the United States. Wasted water is the same as money going down the drain. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to reduce the amount of water you waste in your home. One of the easiest ways is by installing low-flow showerheads and faucets. These fixtures use less water, so you’ll save money on your water bill and energy bill since it takes energy to heat your water.
Another way to save water, energy, and money is by fixing leaks in your home. A small drip from a faucet can waste gallons of water over time, so fixing any leaks as soon as you find them is important. You can also save energy by being mindful of water use. For example, don’t let the water run while brushing your teeth or shaving. And if you’re washing dishes by hand, don’t let the water run while scrubbing them. If you’re not sure what condition your plumbing is in, call a professional to have an inspection completed.
3. Update Your Appliances
Finally, consider investing in energy-efficient appliances. These appliances use less electricity, saving you money on your monthly utility bills over time, eventually paying you back for the initial investment. Many of them come with government rebates and tax credits, which can make them even more affordable. You can complete kitchen renovation simultaneously when you’re doing your appliance upgrade. You’re not alone in wanting a kitchen remodel. According to Woodworking Network, $9.5 billion is where the kitchen cabinet market is, making it a trendy home improvement!
Before you start ripping out everything and starting over from scratch, you should have a contractor come in and look at what types of appliances and other features you have that may not be so energy efficient. Some of what’s already there may be the best you can get, so there’s no point in replacing it and wasting your money. After you get your home up to the highest energy-saving standards, you will see lower utility bills, and you can feel good about doing your part to help reduce your carbon footprint.
Overall, these were three good ways to save energy. Remember that energy saving leads to more money over time.
Alina David
