Energy Saving Tips For Homeowners
As a homeowner, it can feel like your wallet is constantly open. There is always another repair or service needed. The good news is that with proper maintenance and a little extra care, you can reduce some of the costs associated with owning a home.
In this article, we will discuss 25 ways you can save energy and money in your home this year.
1. Get A Smart Thermostat
A great way to save energy and money is to upgrade to a smart thermostat. Smart thermostats can save you up to 30% on your energy bill, so it’s a great investment for any homeowner.
2. Change Your AC Filter Regularly
Another simple way to save energy and money is to change your AC filter regularly. A dirty filter will make your AC unit work harder, using more energy and costing you more money.
3. Use Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are a great way to keep cool in the summer without cranking up the air conditioning. By using ceiling fans, you can reduce your energy usage by up to 40%.
4. Block the Sun
In the summer, the sun can heat your home, making it harder to keep cool. By blocking the sun with shades, you can keep your home cooler and reduce your energy usage.
5. Insulate Your Home
Properly insulating your home is one of the best ways to save energy and money. By keeping the heat in during the winter and the cool air in during the summer, you can reduce your energy usage by up to 30%.
6. Seal Your Home
Along with insulation, sealing your home will help you save energy and money. Sealing cracks and gaps around doors and windows will prevent warm or cool air from escaping, making your home more comfortable and reducing your energy usage.
7. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances
When it’s time to replace an old appliance, make sure to choose an energy-efficient model. Energy-efficient appliances use less energy, which will save you money on your energy bill.
8. Turn Off Lights When You Leave The Room
One of the easiest ways to save energy is to simply turn off lights when you leave the room. Doing this can reduce your energy usage by up to 10%.
9. Use LED Bulbs
LED bulbs are more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs and can last up to 25 times longer. Replacing just five light bulbs in your home with LED bulbs can save you up to $75 per year.
10. Unplug Appliances When You’re Not Using Them
Even when they’re turned off, appliances can still use energy if they’re plugged in. To save energy and money, be sure to unplug appliances when you’re not using them.
11. Use a Power Strip
A power strip is a great way to save energy because it allows you to easily turn off multiple appliances with the flip of a switch. This is especially helpful for electronics that go into standby mode when they’re turned off but are still using energy.
12. Turn Off Your Computer
If you’re not going to be using your computer for a while, be sure to turn it off. Leaving your computer on all the time can waste a lot of energy, so it’s best to turn it off when you’re not using it.
13. Use A Laptop
Laptops use less energy than desktop computers, so they’re a great way to save energy. If you can, use a laptop instead of a desktop computer to save energy and money.
14. Reduce Water Heating Costs
Water heating is one of the biggest energy expenses in your home. There are several ways to reduce water heating costs, such as insulating your water heater and lowering the thermostat setting.
15. Take Shorter Showers
Another way to reduce water heating costs is to take shorter showers. By cutting down your shower time, you can save water and energy, which will lower your utility bills.
16. Fix Leaky Faucets
A leaky faucet can waste a lot of water, so it’s important to fix them as soon as possible. Fixing a leaky faucet can save you up to 10% on your water bill, so it’s definitely worth taking the time to fix them.
17. Turn Off The Water When You Brush Your Teeth
Leaving the water running while you brush your teeth can waste a lot of water. To save water, turn off the water while you brush your teeth and only turn it on when you need to rinse.
18. Invest In A Low-Flow Toilet
A low-flow toilet can save you a lot of water and money. Low-flow toilets use less water per flush, so they’re a great way to reduce your water bill.
19. Collect Rainwater
If you live in an area with frequent rainstorms, you can collect rainwater to use for watering plants or washing your car. By using rainwater, you can save water and money.
20. Use Reusable Bags
Using reusable bags is a great way to reduce waste and save money. Instead of using disposable plastic bags, invest in reusable bags that you can use over and over again.
21. Bring Your Own Coffee Mug
If you’re a coffee drinker, bring your own mug to the coffee shop instead of using a disposable cup. Most coffee shops will give you a discount for bringing your own mug, and you’ll be helping to reduce waste.
22. Repair Leaks Promptly
Water leaks can waste a lot of water and increase your water bill, so it’s important to repair them as soon as possible. By repairing leaks promptly, you can save water and money.
23. Use a Clothesline
If you have the space, using a clothesline to dry your clothes is a great way to save money. Clothes dryers are one of the most energy-intensive appliances in your home, so hanging your clothes to dry can save you a lot of money on your energy bill.
24. Wash Only Full Loads of Laundry
Washing only full loads of laundry is a great way to save water and money. By washing only full loads, you’ll use less water and energy, which will lower your utility bills.
25. Hang Curtains
Hanging curtains is a great way to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. By hanging curtains, you can reduce your heating and cooling costs, saving you money.
Are you thinking about insulating your home or need help sealing your home? Give us a call at (443) 690-3493 and ask us about our yearly weatherization inspection!