Real Estate

The 5 best ways to save energy at home

1. Switch to energy-efficient lights and fans

One of the most effective and easiest ways to lower your energy bills is to switch to fluorescent lighting in your home. Skeptics have raised concerns about the safe environmental disposal of these bulbs due to their mercury content. However, if you follow the proper removal instructions, this concern is completely resolved.

A single fluorescent bulb can produce light equivalent to an incandescent lamp at 70 to 80 percent less cost. So by switching the entire lighting in your home to this form of energy efficient lighting, you can substantially reduce energy costs. Similarly, install ceiling fans or purchase portable pedestal fans for your home. This will reduce your need for air conditioning in the summers and is also a more environmentally friendly alternative.

2. Weather stripping for doors and windows

One of the best lines of defense against the sun in hot summers and cold winds and snow in winters are weather stripping.* Once you weather-strip all the windows and doors in your home, you’ll be amazed at how much you reduce your energy bill.

Identify other gaps in your home for heat loss, such as mechanical blinds, mail slots, chimney, and exterior wall outlets. Air leaks are one of the key factors responsible for heat loss in your home, so plug any leaks.

3. Regularly maintain all electrical appliances

Make sure that the various appliances in your home, such as the refrigerator, freezer, dishwasher, washer and dryer, microwave, and other kitchen appliances, are kept in tip-top and operational condition.

Simple DIY maintenance projects can do the job for you, or you can do a yearly appliance maintenance and repair contract with a professional company. This will significantly reduce your home’s energy consumption over a period of time.

4.Use appliances efficiently

When you use the washer with your dryer, try to wash most of your clothes in one cycle. This will ensure that multiple loads of clothes are dried while the dryer is already hot. Similarly, adjust the temperature of your fridge and freezer based on the load and your cooling needs. If you have a computer at home, set it to automatic deep sleep mode to save power when not in use.

5. Install a solar device

If your environment receives a lot of sunlight during most of the year, consider installing a solar powered device or solar panels on your roof to reduce your monthly energy bills. Solar energy is clean, green and renewable. You may also receive tax credits for such a move. Lead by example and conserve the environment while reducing your energy costs with a solar device.

Reference:

* http://energy.gov/energysaver/articles/weathertripping

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