8 Easy Steps to Energy Efficient Home
Energy efficiency isn’t just another buzzword or the latest millennial trend. And before you exit this blog because you can’t invest thousands of dollars into renovating your house into an eco-friendly space, read this blog. Following these little steps can add up to a significantly lower energy bill and even help you minimize your environmental footprint.
- Unplug those energy-sucking devices
We are always constantly connected to electronic devices- cell phones, televisions, laptops, computers, game consoles, the list goes on and on. To fuel these gadgets, we plug them into their chargers, but one of our biggest faults is not unplugging them. Did you know that even after your device is fully charged, it continues to pull power? Get in the habit of unplugging your chargers, so you aren’t wasting unused energy.
- Change your lightbulbs
Light-emitting diodes (LED) light bulbs are one of today’s most energy-efficient lighting technologies. You can save $75 a year just by replacing your home’s five most-used light bulbs with Energy Star LED lighting. According to the Department of Energy, these lights use at least 75% less energy and last 25 times longer than standard incandescent lighting. Fun fact: widespread use of LED lighting has the most significant potential impact on energy saving in the United States.
- Update your thermostat
If you don’t have an automatic or programmable thermostat, what’re you doing? We’re not saying you need to get the newest high-end smart thermostat, but getting one can help you save money and time. The idea of automatic thermostats is that you reduce energy usage while you are away or when the household is sleeping. For those warmer days, set your home’s temperature to 78° F and when it’s cooler set it to 68° F. You can even save as much as 10% a year by dialing the settings back 7°-10°F for 8 hours a day in the summer and winter.
- Replace air filters
When was the last time you changed the air filter in your home’s HVAC system? If you can’t remember, then it’s long overdue. Energy Star recommends changing it at least every three months. Not only will it extend the life of your HVAC unit, but it’ll keep your energy costs down. When air filters are clogged and dirty, they have to work extra hard to push out air, which causes your bill to climb up.
- Change your water habits
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, a homeowner can save around $170 a year by making small changes to their water usage and installing water-efficient fixtures. Simple steps like turning off the water while you’re brushing your teeth to installing a low-flow showerhead can make a difference.
- Find alternative ways to cool and heat your home
44% of homeowners’ utility bills come from heating and cooling the home. Consider installing a ductless mini-split system. Ducts are notorious for losing energy because of their poor construction, but with this system, you won’t have to worry about that lost air. Advances in technology mean you can enjoy cost-friendly and eco-friendly heating and cooling.
- Cook smarter
You use a large amount of energy when you cook. Try using the microwave instead of the oven when you can- it uses approximately 80% less energy. If you do use your oven, try turning it off a few minutes before the time runs out. Your food will continue to cook without eating up the extra energy. You can also invest in a hot pot or pressure cooker that will uphold the quality of taste while saving you time.
- Be more conscious with laundry
Did you know that the majority of the energy used by a washing machine is to heat the water? Merely turning the settings down to warm or cold water can help you save money. It’s also smart to wait until you have a full load before doing laundry. Try implementing a once-a-week laundry schedule with everyone in the house instead of doing a bunch of small loads throughout the week.
Big Bonus Ideas
Here are a couple of additional ideas you can do to be more energy efficient. While you’ll have to invest more, it will pay off in the long run.
Buy Energy Star products
If any of your appliances are due for a replacement, purchase products with an Energy Star rating. This program was developed by US government bodies to help consumers find the most energy-efficient products. Click here for the list of products. You can find appliances from refrigerators to computers to coffee makers.
Schedule a home energy audit
Consider hiring a professional to audit the energy use in your home. These professionals will inspect and assess your home and then give you the best recommendations on how you can be more energy efficient.
Contact 3C Mechanical Technologies Today
Our team has been servicing Waco, Texas for more than 40 years. If you’re interested in learning more about ductless mini-split systems, contact us online or give us a call at (254) 414-2115.
