One of the biggest bites to your wallet comes from home energy costs. There are many ways to save on energy. Some are simple and cost nothing, while others will require an investment. With the cost of living rising, we hope these five energy efficiency tips will help you to better control your home expenses.
Change your household temperature setting
According to the U.S. DOE, if you change your temperature setting for eight hours a day, you could save up to 10% on your annual heating and cooling costs. They recommend a heating temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit in cold months and 78 degrees Fahrenheit in hot months for an eight hour period each day.
Use incandescent bulbs
If you haven’t done so already, replace your traditional light bulbs with compact fluorescent or LED bulbs. They not only last longer, but these bulbs also use less energy.
Unplug standby electronics
Did you know that electronics can draw power even when they’re not being used? They could add 5% to 10% to your electrical bill. Some common electrical standby power appliances, include:
- Gaming consoles
- Recharging laptops
- Cell phone chargers
- Some wireless devices
Check out “smart power bars”, which can cut power to devices when they’re not in use.
Install thermal insulated doors and windows
Inefficient doors and windows can drain up to 25% of the heat from your home. The most energy-efficient windows on the market are insulated with argon gas between the two panes.
Upgrade your attic insulation
Think about upgrading your attic insulation to spray foam insulation. Heat moves out of your home in the winter and flows into your home in the summer. Proper attic insulation reduces this airflow, so you don’t use as much energy to heat and cool your home. Using spray foam insulation in your home might help you to save up to 40% on your heating and cooling bills.