Making your home more energy efficient doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Several small changes you can make will lower energy bills and help the environment. Keep reading to learn a few easy ways to make your home more energy efficient.
Seal the Windows and Doors to Make a Home Energy Efficient
A great way to keep energy costs down is to make sure your windows and doors are properly sealed. Inadequate insulation around windows and doors allows air leaks that increase heating and cooling bills. Inspect the weatherstripping around your window frames and doorways and replace seals that have become worn out. Check for gaps and cracks around the frames and fill them with silicone caulk. You can add a layer of insulation to the window frames, such as bubble wrap or foam tape, to help keep heat in and cold air out.
Update Your Lighting
Switching to energy-efficient lighting is an easy way to reduce your energy usage. Compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs are much more energy efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs, and LED lights are even more efficient. Switch all of the lights in your home to CFL or LED bulbs to save money on utility bills every month.
Adjust the Thermostat
Managing the thermostat is one of the easiest ways to make your home energy efficient. Turn it down when you’re away or asleep. Investing in a programmable thermostat can help automate this process, as it will automatically adjust the temperature at preset times.
Install Solar Panels to be More Energy Efficient
Solar panels are an excellent option for reducing energy bills and helping the environment. Solar panels absorb solar energy and convert it into electricity, which can then be used to power your home. Installing solar panels requires a significant upfront investment, but you’ll save money in the long run on your electricity bill.
Weatherize Your Home to Make it More Energy Efficient
Adding insulation is a great way to reduce energy costs. Install the proper insulation for your climate, as different types of insulation are designed for different temperatures. Adding heavy window treatments and thick curtains will also help keep your home’s temperature regulated.
Upgrade the Appliances
Your appliances account for a large portion of your energy bills. Consider upgrading any older appliances to newer, energy-efficient models. Look for the Energy Star label so you will be sure that you are getting an appliance that is designed to save energy.
Follow these tips to help make your home more energy-efficient. A few small changes can make a huge difference over time.
Stevens Home Inspections provides inspection services to home buyers and sellers in the Northern Texas area, including Dallas, Frisco, Plano, Allen, and Prosper. Contact us to schedule an appointment.