Tips to Improve the Energy-Efficiency of Your Home

Rising energy costs coupled with a growing concern for the environment are causing many of us to rethink the way we manage our energy consumption and adopt more sustainable practices in our daily lives. According to current numbers, depletion of the Earth’s natural resources is taking place at an alarming rate, with 90 billion natural resources being exhausted annually with a projected twofold increase by 2050.

As a result many more of us are looking for ways to reduce our impact on the planet. This includes opting for locally sourced food with lower carbon emissions and embracing renewable ways of energy generation. Another area that is coming into focus more prominently is the way we manage energy usage within our homes. In this article, we have outlined some of the things you can do to start saving energy around your home.

Switch to Energy Efficient Lights

Switching your incandescent light bulbs to energy-efficient lighting will allow you to light up your home, using less energy and money. According to the Department of Energy, lighting accounts for approximately 15% of the total electricity consumption in an average household, with a typical family saving around $225 annually by switching to LED lighting. LED bulbs also have a longer lifespan compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, lasting up to 25 times longer.

You can further increase your home's energy efficiency by installing dimmer switches which reduce energy flow to the light bulb, as well as motion-sensor lights which automatically turn off when there is no one in the room.

Install Energy-Efficient Windows

Your windows play a key role in both heating and cooling your home. Depending on the climate where you live, it’s important to choose windows that can either reduce heat loss or heat gain, helping to keep your heating and cooling energy consumption at its most efficient.

For example, in hotter climates, tinted windows work well to reduce heat and glare, meaning less energy will be required to maintain your home’s indoor temperature at a comfortably cool level. Similarly, in the colder months, tinted windows can prevent heat loss from within your home, helping to keep it warm without the need for additional heating. You can contact this Dallas window tinting company to find out more about installing tinted windows in your home.

Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances

According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), if only 10% of homes used energy-efficient appliances, that would cut carbon emissions by the equivalent of 1.7 million acres of trees. When replacing kitchen appliances such as washing machines, refrigerators, dishwashers, and kettles choose ones which are certified as energy-efficient through the government’s Energy Star-rating system.  

However, it is worth noting that the size of the appliance should also be factored in when making your purchase. For example, when buying a new refrigerator, choose one that is adequate for your family’s needs as larger appliances can cancel out the potential energy-savings you might gain.

By following the recommendations outlined above, you can make your home more energy-efficient, helping you to save money while playing your part in saving the planet.