Are you tired of high energy bills for cooling, heating and lighting? If you are, there are steps you can take to reduce your energy consumption and lower your home’s carbon footprint! The best part? Many of these fixes are low cost. Follow these energy saving tips to reduce your energy consumption!
1. Change Your Light Bulbs
If you are like most people, you’ve probably switched your old incandescent bulbs to compact fluorescent lights (CFLs), but did you know that you can save even more money by switching to LED light bulbs? LED light bulbs are rated to last nearly 10 times longer than CFLs, and they only use between two and 17 watts, which could save you as much as 33 percent on your home lighting.
2. Check for Air Leaks
To stop air leaks, caulk windows and apply weather stripping to doors. You can also purchase inexpensive door sweeps to stop outside air from entering your home under the door. When it comes to sealing your air ducts, a qualified HVAC technician, like the ones at Hanna Plumbing & Heating can inspect and seal your air ducts.
3. Check for Vampire Appliances and Electronics
Common vampire appliances include alarm clocks, microwaves, coffee makers and any appliances with digital clocks. Take a trip around your home and look for appliances that are still “on” even when they are “off.” Combating this problem is as easy as unplugging these appliances or using a power strip that you can easily turn off when you are not using the electronics.
4. Install and Program a Programmable Thermostat
If you do not have a programmable thermostat, consider calling an HVAC tech to have one installed and programmed to your desired heating and cooling settings. Programming your thermostat for lower temperatures while you are not at home and sleeping can save you as much as 10 percent on your annual heating and cooling costs.
5. Install Low-Flow Faucets and Showerheads
Reducing your water usage is as easy as installing low-flow faucets and showerheads in your home. Alternatively, you can keep your old faucets and simply install low-flow aerators.
6. Optimize Your Water Heater
Your water heater can cost you a significant amount of money if it is not optimized. Consider lowering the water temperature to between 120 and 130 degrees and insulating the water pipes. You can also purchase and install a water heater jacket to help improve your water heater’s efficiency.
Contact us to learn more about ways to save energy in 2018. To schedule an HVAC or plumbing service, call us at 319-377-2809!
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Sources:
Marine Corp Energy
Energy Star
Popular Mechanics
National Geographic
