Unique Ways To Increase Energy Efficiency In Your House

Ways to Improve Your Home's Energy Efficiency

Each household takes considerable energy for charging devices or running an AC or other appliances needing power at home. In case utility bills have been a concern for you, it’s time to implement measures that result in energy savings. There are several ways by which you can increase the energy efficiency of your house without making any drastic changes to your lifestyle. They are quick and easy to implement too.

Unplug Gadgets

Turning off an appliance doesn’t necessarily mean it’s not drawing power. It is estimated that “vampire power” costs customers a whopping $30 billion each year. It means on average each household is spending $200 each year just because their gadgets remain plugged. Hence, unplug your devices and appliances when you aren’t using them or after they are fully charged.

Adjust Temperature of Your Water Heater

You might be surprised but lowering the thermostat settings of the water heater can result in considerable energy savings. Every 10ºF decrease in temperature contributes to 3-5% of your energy costs. Some manufacturers set thermostats of water heaters at 140ºF, but usually, 120ºF is enough for most households.

Change Filters

Dirty air filters in your HVAC system make it harder for the system to function. Hence it uses more energy. To ensure it works efficiently, you need to change the filter periodically. Different kinds of filters need different actions, for instance, you should replace a fiberglass filter once each month.

Use a Dishwasher

Most of us think that hand-washing dirty dishes is better than using a big appliance. However, using a dishwasher means it uses less hot water compared to you letting a tap run while you scrub. While cleaning the dishes, make sure you don’t rinse them before loading and ensure you fill the dishwasher before running.

Select Cold Cycle

Almost 90% of energy is used in washing clothes goes towards heating the hot-and-warm-water cycles. Advanced washers along with laundry detergents make it possible to clean clothes efficiently clean in cold water. You should select a cold-water cycle whenever possible.

Program The Thermostat

Programmable thermostats allow you to adjust the temperature when you are not at home. Using them can save up to 10% on cooling and heating costs. Hence, you should replace your standard thermostat with a programmable option.

Fix Leaks

Estimates by Environmental Protection Agency suggest that leaks account for almost 10,000 gallons of water wasted each year per household. Besides being an enormous wastage, overlooking leaks can lead to serious plumbing problems. Thus, periodically check the faucets for leaks and fix them the moment you discover them.

Circulate Air

On average, you pay about 36 cents each hour for operating a room air conditioner. However, a ceiling fan costs about a penny for the same duration. Although ceiling fans don’t cool your rooms like an AC, it circulates the air and creates a breeze. Besides being effective during the hot summer months, reversing its direction in winters can recirculate warm air that collects near the ceiling.

Use Efficient Bulbs

Replacing the 5 most frequently used lights or bulbs with Energy Star-certified lights can save up to $75 each year. Because incandescent bulbs burn out, you should replace them with energy-efficient bulbs as they consume 80% less energy and lasts for a considerably longer period.

Seal Air Leaks

An average household can save about 20% on their heating and cooling costs equivalent to 10% of the total energy bill each year by adequately sealing and insulating corners. Ensure you are sealing air leaks around doors, windows, electrical outlets, or other probable places.

If you are searching for expert home insulation services in Tampa Bay, FL, contact Done Rite Insulation. They have an experienced team of professionals providing complete home and building energy audits to completely optimize efficiency.

Picture Credit: Crello