Are you looking for ways to save money and live a more eco-friendly and sustainable lifestyle? Going green at home is easier than you might think. Below are five ways you can make a positive change to your carbon footprint today.
1. Install Energy-Efficient Windows
Approximately 30% of a home’s heating energy is lost through windows. For this reason, installing double-paned windows instead of single-paned products can cut your total energy bill.
It’s advisable to use windows with Low-E coatings, for example. They reflect more light and minimize thermal energy entering your home, and in this way, Low-E coatings decrease heat gain.
You can also lessen heat loss by 10% to 20% if you install interior or exterior storm windows in severe weather environments. It’s possible to save $20 to $95 every year on your energy costs through ENERGY STAR windows.
Other measures include window shades, screens, shutters, and a retractable window awning. A retractable window awning stops the sun from streaming through the windows and sliding glass. As a result, it keeps your home temperatures cooler, leading to low air-conditioning expenses.
2. Keep an Eye on Water Heating Costs
Heating water accounts for the biggest chunk of your energy bill. So, one way of reducing water-heating expenses is to buy an efficient water heater. When you’re away or in bed, ensure that your thermostat is 10 to 15 degrees lower on the water heater. Coupled with insulating your water heater, you may save 5% to 15% annually.
3. Buy Energy-Efficient Electronics
Outdated appliances with high operating costs per annum will gnaw at your energy bill. Instead, buy electrical gadgets that have the ENERGY STAR label. It’s a seal of approval by the federal government that these products consume less energy when used or off.
4. Use Smart Trips
Your electricity bill can shoot up to $200 a year owing to energy waste. It’s because while your electronics are off, they still use electricity known as “phantom loads.” If you don’t control phantom loads, you’ll lose much energy. Smart trips can help you decrease energy waste since they shut off power through remote switches when your appliances are off.
5. Replace Incandescent Light Bulbs
The old-type of incandescent light bulbs use lots of electricity. To save on your energy expenses, swap them out with compact fluorescent lights (CFLs), halogen incandescent bulbs, and light-emitting bulbs (LEDs). All these lights use between 25% and 80% less energy and are three to 25 times more durable than conventional bulbs.
Installing dimmer switches can go a long way in controlling your energy costs. With these light controls, you can also set the brightness you desire, saving you electricity.
These simple tips can save you money, protect your environment, and increase your property value.
