Want to lower your energy bills while keeping your home comfortable all year long? Here are four easy ways to make your home more energy efficient—backed by insights from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).
Energy-Efficient Windows
This might surprise you! According to the DOE:
“Energy-efficient window attachments are important for both new and existing homes. About 30% of a home’s heating energy is lost through windows. In cooling seasons, about 76% of sunlight that falls on standard double-pane windows enters to become heat. Window coverings can help with this loss of energy by providing comfort, regulating temperatures, and lowering energy bills.”
https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/energy-efficient-window-coverings?nrg_redirect=370044
So, your first step? Invest in window coverings or treatments to help keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter—while saving money on your energy bill.
Seal Up Cracks and Holes
Don’t let unwanted air sneak into your home! Sealing cracks and holes—especially around windows, doors, and baseboards—helps keep indoor temperatures consistent. This reduces the workload on your heating and cooling system and improves energy efficiency.
Keep the Thermostat Running Efficiently
Did you know that appliances like lamps or TVs placed too close to your thermostat can trick it into running more than necessary? The DOE warns that heat from nearby appliances can throw off your thermostat’s reading.
It also helps to adjust your settings when you’re not home. Keep the house a bit warmer in the summer (or cooler in the winter) when you’re away and adjust it once you’re back. This simple habit can cut your energy bill by up to 10%.
Efficient Lighting
And don’t forget your lighting! According to the DOE:
“Widespread use of LED lighting has a large potential impact on energy savings in the United States. By 2035, the majority of lighting installations are anticipated to use LED technology, and energy savings from LED lighting could top 569 TWh annually by 2035, equal to the annual energy output of more than 92 1,000 MW power plants.”
https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/led-lighting?nrg_redirect=311221
LED bulbs use less energy and last longer saving your money over time.
Final Note
With a few upgrades, you can cut your energy usage and costs.
