In today’s world, energy efficiency has become a necessity. With rising energy costs and growing environmental anxieties, finding ways to decrease our energy consumption has never been more important.
Most homeowners think that energy efficiency is something that only manufacturers should worry about, and that’s where they’re wrong. In reality, every step we take toward energy efficiency counts because these efforts can improve our overall energy footprint.
Whether it’s DIY home renovations or hiring expert services, there are many ways to make your home more energy efficient. Wallaby Windows notes that replacing your windows and doors is one of them. There’s much more you can do to minimize your home’s footprint.
Our goal today is to share four practical strategies to help you make your home more energy efficient. Let’s get started!
Why Does Energy Efficiency Matter (Energy Consumption)
Most people confuse energy efficiency with simply cutting costs, but it is much more than that – the goal of energy efficiency is to make the future of our planet sustainable.
By improving energy efficiency and reducing our carbon footprint, we help fight climate change and protect our environment. Every kilowatt hour saved means fewer fossil fuels are burned, and less CO2 is emitted into the atmosphere.
For example, the U.S. Rise Reduction Act (IRA), introduced in 2022, reflects the country’s most significant investment in energy and climate. This paved the way to becoming the world leader in domestic clean energy manufacturing – a path the government is now on.
1:Invest in Energy-efficient Appliances (Energy Consumption)
Switching to energy-efficient appliances is arguably the easiest way to reduce your home’s energy consumption. Don’t believe us? Well, here are the numbers that speak for themselves.
Last year, American consumers saved more than $12 billion on utility bills by switching to energy-efficient appliances. Their switch also prevented greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those of 23 million cars a year. Doesn’t that sound like a significant number?
Now that you’re convinced, here’s how to make it a reality. When purchasing a new application, look for the ENERGY STAR label. This fancy badge means the product meets strict energy competence standards the EPA and DOE set.
If an appliance in your home is over a decade and a half old, it may be a good time to replace it. For example, a modern refrigerator uses much less energy than a refrigerator from the 1990s. The same drives for washing machines and dishwashers – newer models save water and electricity with every load.
Maintenance is also essential. Clean your refrigerator coils, check the door seals, and always run your washing machine and dishwasher with a full load. These simple steps can increase efficiency, extend the life of your appliances, and ultimately save you money and reduce your carbon footprint.
2 The Appeal of Smart Thermostats (Energy Consumption)
Wouldn’t you like to be able to come home to a perfectly calm home after a hot day without wasting energy all day? Or would you find it convenient to adjust the temperature from your phone while you’re snuggled up in bed? Smart thermostats simplify energy awareness, offering convenience, savings, and sustainability in one sleek package.
These devices are game-changers in terms of energy efficiency at home. Since they can be controlled remotely via smartphone apps, you can change their settings on the fly.
Smart thermostats also optimize the operation of your HVAC system, reducing energy waste. With detailed energy consumption reports, you’ll be able to understand your consumption habits and receive suggestions for improvement.
Some newer models can even adjust the temperature based on local weather forecasts. With these features, smart thermostats reduce utility bills and contribute to a greener planet.
3:Upgrading Your Windows
Upgrading your windows is an effective way to increase your home’s energy efficiency. Many may not realise it, but old, drafty windows can be a significant energy waste by letting cold or warm air escape.
On the other hand, modern, energy-efficient windows come with topographies like double or triple glazing, Low-E coatings, and insulated frames. Wondering what these features are for? Well, their job is to minimize heat transfer to keep your home comfortable all year round.
If you’re considering upgrading your windows, consider replacing your single-glazed windows with double-glazed alternatives. These feature a layer of gas, usually argon or krypton, amongst the panes to improve insulation.
Low-E (low emissivity) are invisible coatings that can reflect infrared light from the outside. By doing so, they trap heat inside during the winter and keep it out in the summer. Quality vinyl, fibreglass, or wood window frames with proper thermal breaks can also help reduce energy loss.
Also Read: Why should you focus on API test automation?
4:Checking Insulation in Floors, Walls, and Attics
Keeping your home well insulated is like wrapping it in a cozy blanket so it stays comfortable year-round. Well-insulated homes can help you reduce your electric bill by as much as 40-50% by controlling your heating and cooling. Adding loose-fill insulation to your home will pay for itself over the next 5-6 years by eliminating condensation on walls and ceilings.
When checking insulation, start with the attic, which is the main culprit of heat loss. A well-insulated attic with fibreglass or foam can significantly reduce energy waste.
Next, turn your attention to the walls. Insulation or blown-in foam can fill hidden spaces that allow heat to escape. Don’t forget the floors, especially those above unheated spaces like basements.
Sealing gaps and cracks is the finishing touch. Think of it as adding buttons and zippers to that blanket to ensure the heat doesn’t escape. By thoroughly insulating your home, you improve comfort, reduce energy bills and keep your home green.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which Water System is Most Efficient?
Tankless water heaters are careful the most efficient of all water systems. While the installation costs of these heaters can be higher than those of traditional alternatives, they have a longer lifespan (up to 20 years). They also have lower operating and energy costs, which offset their purchase price.
How Much Energy Does the Average U.S. Home Use?
Energy consumption across the country varies significantly by region and type of home. The average U.S. home uses about 10,000 kWh of energy annually, with air conditioning accounting for the lion’s share (18%). Other significant sources of household energy consumption include space heating (12%) and water heating (12%).
How Does Weatherstripping Save Energy?
Weatherstripping is essentially sealing all potential leaks on your home’s doors, windows, and other moving parts. The small gaps that facilitate these leaks can change the indoor temperature strain on your HVAC system and, in turn, your energy costs.
If there’s one thing we’ve learned so far, it’s that, as homeowners, there are many things we can do to save energy at home. Not only does this make the planet greener, but it also helps reduce our utility and electricity bills. If you follow the strategies we discussed above, you’ll also be able to make your home energy efficient.
