10 Ways to Cut Your Energy Costs at Home

As energy rates continue to rise, you are probably on the lookout for ways to reduce your usage and save money. Although larger investments such as replacing the windows or installing high-efficiency HVAC systems absolutely make your home more efficient, you can cut energy costs sooner with little to no up-front investment. Here’s what to do.

1. Change Your HVAC Air Filter

Check the filter monthly and swap it out when it looks dirty, or every three months, whichever happens first. The cost of a new filter can pay for itself by boosting efficiency, providing proper airflow, and preventing the HVAC equipment from overheating. Your home will also feel more comfortable and have cleaner indoor air with a clean filter in place.

2. Set Your Thermostat for Energy Savings

Keep the temperature at 70 degrees or cooler through the winter and adjust it to 77 degrees or warmer over the summer. Then, wear clothing that suits the season to help you stay comfortable. 

3. Install a Programmable Thermostat

If you still have an old manual thermostat, get a programmable model. A smart thermostat pays for itself quickly thanks to energy savings by allowing you to program setback periods while you’re away or sleeping. Intelligent temperature recovery means you conserve energy without ever feeling uncomfortable. Keep an eye out for a smart Wi-Fi thermostat you can set up remotely for additional opportunities to save.

4. Schedule Annual HVAC Maintenance

Preventative maintenance delivers a great return on investment. First of all, it pays you back by reducing your energy bills. After all, a well-maintained HVAC system performs more effectively than a neglected one. You also reduce the risk of malfunctions and the associated repair costs. Plus, your heating and cooling is bound to live a few years more when you keep up with maintenance today.

5. Locate and Seal Air Leaks

Air leaks can develop wherever multiple building materials are connected. Find and seal up these leaks to keep your home comfortable and reduce the strain on your heating and cooling. Here are a couple of tips: 

  • Try to replace old weatherstripping to help windows and doors close more tightly.
  • Re-caulk stationary cracks around windows and doors to avoid air leaks.
  • Apply expanding spray foam near wiring, plumbing, ventilation, and other penetrations in your walls, ceilings and floors.
  • Close the fireplace damper when a fire isn’t being lit.

6. Use Solar Heat Gain to Your Advantage

In the summer, your goal is to block solar heat gain. Shutting reflective curtains over the windows in the afternoon is a simple way to do this. If your budget allows, you can also plant trees on the south and west sides of your property. By selecting deciduous trees, you can enjoy cooling shade over the summer while still allowing the sun to heat your home for free throughout the winter. 

7. Use Water Wisely 

Conserve this important resource and save on your water bills with some tips:

  • Take shorter showers rather than lengthy baths.
  • Secure low-flow showerheads and aerated faucets.
  • Shut off the water when you are shaving and brushing your teeth.
  • Deal with drippy faucets, running toilets, and leaky pipes right away.

8. Turn Things Off

Plug computers, printers, TVs, Blu-ray players, game consoles and other electronics into power strips. This way, you can turn them off with the flip of a switch when you are not using them. While you’re at it, unplug cell phone chargers and other adapters when not in use to avoid small amounts of “phantom” energy use. 

9. Replace Your Light Bulbs

Do you still use old incandescent bulbs around the house? Exchange them for LEDs to save as much as 70 percent on your lighting bills. Bulb replacement costs also decline as LEDs work about 25 times longer than incandescent lights.

10. Use Appliances Efficiently

Appliances are the power hogs of the home. Lower costs with these tips:

  • Close windows and doors when using the furnace or air conditioner.
  • Adjust the water heater temperature to 120 degrees and add an insulating blanket.
  • Only operate the dishwasher and washing machine with full loads.
  • Disable the heated-dry feature on your dishwasher.
  • Line-dry clothes when the weather is warm.
  • Heat food in the microwave as opposed to the oven or stove, especially on summer afternoons.
  • If your local utility provider charges more for electricity through “peak times,” strive to use energy-heavy appliances during low-peak periods.

Get Help Reducing Home Energy Costs

Lots of cost-cutting measures relate directly to your home heating, cooling and plumbing systems. If you need help making use of these tips, get in touch with Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We offer affordable maintenance and repair support, alongside cost-effective installation and replacement services. Additionally, with financing options available, even larger upgrades will fit your budget. For more details about our services or to request an estimate, please contact your local Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing office today.

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