How To: Make Your Home More Efficient
Posted on September 14, 2016 by Advance Companies
Aside from trying to stay warm this Fall and Winter, you’re thinking about how to bring down that energy bill at the same time. You’re certainly not alone in this. Maximizing your energy efficiency without spending more is key. What little things can you do keep the cold air out, and the energy bill lower? We’ve got a few ideas.
Insulate Your Home
According to the Alliance to Save Energy, about 50% of American homes are underinsulated. Adding insulation will keep your home more comfortable all year round, not just in the Winter, keep cool or hot air out, and help you save on your energy bill.
No Need to Re-Rinse
We’re all guilty of this. We think that by rinsing off dishes and getting them “almost clean” before placing them in the dishwasher, we’re doing the dishwasher a favor. This is false. The dishwasher actually runs with better efficiency with dirty dishes. Who would have thought? It’s a good idea to remove larger food particles from dishes, but leave the rest to the dishwasher.
Install Low-Flow Toilets and Showerheads
Toilet use consumes up to 40 percent of a home’s water usage, while a normal showerhead can use 5 gallons of water per minute. Reduce those numbers with a low-flow toilet (will save you up to 9,000 gallons of water use per year) and a low-flow showerhead (uses 1.5 gallons of water per minute, on average).
Replace Incandescent lights with Fluorescent
Fluorescent bulbs last up to ten times longer than incandescent bulbs and use 75 percent less energy, saving you energy and time switching out bulbs.
Insulate your Water Heater and Pipes
You’ll save energy and retain hot water longer with a water heater blanket. Your tank will also use less energy to heat the water. In addition, applying rubber or foam insulation around pipes will keep pipes from sweating in the Summer, and retain water temperature in the pipes in the Winter.
Replace Furnace Air Filters Often
A dirty furnace air filter will cause your system to work harder, and more often. We suggest changing it out twice a year for efficiency.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
There are more than a few benefits to installing a programmable thermostat. First of all, you’ll save an average of 100 dollars a year on your electric bill. You’ll also achieve optimal climate control for your living space and enjoy the convenience.
Check Doors and Windows for Leaks
While a complete seal is almost impossible, any room for air to go out or in with windows and doors closed is an energy bill nightmare. Make sure you have weatherstripping below your door and seals in windows are tight. Make the necessary adjustments to keep hot air in and cool air out this Winter.
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