When it comes to saving energy, the smallest steps can often make the biggest impact. One of the easiest ways you can save energy is by starting with small steps at home. Here are a few tips on how to make your home more energy-efficient.
Change Your Light Bulbs
Instead of opting for traditional incandescent light bulbs, which convert less than five percent of energy into visible light, try swapping them out for light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs. LED bulbs are a much more efficient choice, as they use up to 80% less energy than incandescent bulbs. Because energy-efficient bulbs such as LEDs last longer than traditional bulbs, you can also expect to save money in the long run.
Seal Your Home
When cold air enters your home through open cracks and gaps, it can cause you to raise your heat and therefore increase your utility bills. Insulation is an affordable method that prevents unwanted air from entering your home. One of the most popular types is Pittsburgh fiberglass insulation, as it is lightweight and nonflammable. Another option is to use caulk to seal common areas of air leakage, including doors and window frames.
Unplug Your Appliances
The average household has about 40 appliances that are plugged in but not in use. Unplugging your electronics when you aren’t using them can save you both energy and money. Although it may seem that a single device isn’t using up a large amount of energy, all of your unused appliances can account for up to 10% of your home’s energy use.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat allows you to schedule when your heat or air-conditioning turns on, which translates to energy savings and a lower energy bill. In addition to installing a programmable thermostat, simply raising the temperature on your thermostat by two degrees in the summer can save you almost three dollars a month.
Although saving energy can seem like an overwhelming task at first, following these easy tips can put you on the right path towards making your home more energy-efficient.