Do you know how to make your home more sustainable and energy efficient? One of the biggest trends in the home market right now is making your home “green” or energy-efficient. Energy-efficiency can benefit you in several ways. For one, you will be using less electricity, which can save you money. Two, greening your home actually can increase the value, and will enable you to sell the home for more when you move. Third, you will reduce your carbon footprint and make the earth a little better.
If you are new to the eco-friendly lifestyle, you may not know how to make your home a greener place. Luckily, there are some simple and inexpensive ways that can help. Try these tips to make your home more energy-efficient.
Make your home more sustainable and energy efficient
Use light sources that do not consume energy for sustainability
Solar lights are an easy way to light up outdoor areas. They collect light from the sun during the day, and at night they reflect the light back. Solar lights do not drain your home energy sources at all. Another option for indoors is to use candles and candle holders for some lighting. If you are scared of dripping wax, there are wickless candles that can supply enough light in a room to avoid turning on lamps. During the day, avoid switching on lights as much as possible and stick to sunlight.
Carry out an energy audit to be energy efficient
Your home can also act as an energy bandit, stealing away the air you generate and making your HVAC system have to work harder to keep your house comfortable. Look for leaks around your home and seal them. A qualified HVAC technician can conduct an energy audit and will identify sources of leaks. According to the US Department of Energy, you can lose up to 60 percent of your home’s energy through leaks in the home. Sealing those leaks will significantly cut back on your home’s energy consumption.
Broken appliances use more energy
To cut back on your energy use, keep your appliances and HVAC system serviced regularly. Many HAVC companies offer yearly system maintenance, and other large appliance companies may as well, such as your fridge company or dishwasher company. Pay attention to your appliances and keep them working well. If your units are older than 20 years, replace them.
Your curtains can provide an excellent source of energy regulation. Simply pull the curtains over the windows in the summer to block out unwanted light. In the winter, open the curtains to allow the sun’s rays to warm the interior of your home. See how to make a curtain here.
Air conditioning and heater systems
According to Energy Savers.gov, lowering your thermostat by about 3 degrees in the winter can save up to 10 percent on heating bills. Raising the thermostat in the summer will have similar benefits. This also cuts back on your energy use.
Implementing these tips are simple ways you can increase the energy-efficiency of your home. Start with small steps, then move on to larger steps, such as replacing appliances with Energy Star rated appliances or installing solar panels. Taking baby steps is the best way to stick to your commitments and make visible progress.
This is a post by Ashley Williamson. Ashley is a freelance writer and an occasional guest-blogger in various areas. When she is not working she likes to travel around the United States and do yoga.
Anne you are just great! I learned so much reading your articles! Now I learned how to save some money by saving energy!
Thank you!
thanks for the great tips,always helpful!
Good points. Have you thought about infrared heating? They can reduce energy consumption whilst improving comfort.
Very nice post it will help me to take care of my home well 🙂
As you pointed out an energy audit can greatly reduce your energy costs. I would recommend all homeowners get an audit before spending money on trendy energy efficient gadgets that promise to lower your power bills. What you find might surprise you!
Thanks for this article! Starting by now i will spend less on energy 😉 ! Thanks again for this tips!
Great tips, energy efficiency is only going to become a more important aspect of the housing market so it is good to be prepared.
Sweet Article! I use the energy solar lights too.
Ah, one of my favourite topics! I’m a big environmental sort – I recycle absolutely everything I can at home (and at work) but obviously you need to make the switch to energy saving light bulbs/appliances. You can also buy biodegradable bin liners to help there, and purchase plant based cleaning products (washing up liquid, dishwasher etc.) to keep your plates and kitchen clear of superfluous chemicals. It helps the environment too, of course!
Thanks for the article!
Thanks for the tips, Alex. I am also a believer in recycling and recycle everything at home. In England we’re also able to recycle cooked food. This is a blessing, since my kids always have scrapings on their plates.
Thanks for the great tips.
How would one get solar lights to use at home?
Thanks for the advice. Great tips.
whenever I think buying any electronic appliances will consider purchasing a brand that is energy saving.