Reducing energy use will lower the utility bills, and you’ll be conserving and protecting the environment. Below are a few easy techniques to help you save energy at home.
Use a Programmable Thermostat to Save Energy at Home
When used correctly, a programmable thermostat significantly reduces your heating and cooling expenses. Set this device to adjust the indoor temperature automatically when you are away or asleep. A programmable thermostat allows you to create a schedule to maintain comfortable living spaces throughout the day.
A smart thermostat uses WiFi to make monitoring your heating and cooling system easy. Control the indoor temperature with an app on your phone. An added benefit of a smart thermostat includes notifications when you need to change the air filter, which improves your system’s efficiency.
Add Insulation
Proper insulation is an integral part of saving energy at home. It helps the house retain heat during winter and keeps living spaces cooler during summer. The appropriate level of insulation will vary depending on your local climate. To save energy, adequately insulate the basement, crawlspace, walls, and floors.
Seal Air Leaks to Save Energy at Home
Sealing air leaks or weatherizing your home is an excellent way to lower energy bills. Most air leaks occur around vents, windows, and doors. They waste energy by allowing air to enter or escape your home, causing the HVAC system to work hard to maintain the desired temperature.
To seal air leaks, apply silicone caulk or weatherstripping. Use caulk to fill openings and cracks between immobile objects such as window frames and walls. In contrast, weatherstripping seals leaks on moving components like around windows and doors.
Dress for the Weather
Choose your clothing depending on the weather to save energy at home. When it’s cold outside, people bundle up in layers of clothing. Do the same indoors to lower your energy consumption significantly. You’ll feel warmer, and your heating unit will not need to work as hard.
Use Sunlight
Lighting contributes to your total energy usage. Use natural lighting to illuminate living spaces during the day. In winter, the sunlight will also help warm your home.
When the weather is cold, close the curtains in the evening to prevent warm air from escaping. In summer, sunlight will heat the house and force the AC to work harder. Close the blinds or curtains during the day to prevent radiant heat from warming the inside of the home.
The above tips will help you save energy at home, lower your monthly utility bills, and conserve resources.
Professional Inspection Network provides home inspection services in Southern California. Contact us to schedule an appointment.