With a few small changes and useful tips, you can make your home more energy efficient, reduce environmental impact and save money. Here are some practical and easy-to-apply, energy saving tips that may help to lower your utility bills and improve your homes efficiency during these long winter months.
Plug the gaps
Small gaps around windows, doors, and other areas of the house add up. In fact, the EPA estimates that homeowners can save an average of 11% on total energy costs by air sealing their homes and adding insulation in attics, floors over crawl spaces, and cellars. Seal gaps and cracks with caulk or weather stripping to keep the cold air out in the winter and the hot air out in the summer.
Switch to LED’s
According to Energy.gov, LED lightbulbs use up to 90% less energy and last up to 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.
While more expensive than traditional bulbs upfront, LED lightbulbs save money over time thanks to their long lifespan.
This can be a big upfront cost if you do it all at once, but if you focus on the rooms you use most and change at replacement it is more affordable.
Unplug your Electronics
Leaving gadgets and charger cords plugged in when not in use can account for as much as 10% of a home’s energy use. Simply unplugging what’s not being used can make a big difference on your energy bills. Instead, plug devices into a power strip that you can switch off when not in use. Remember to unplug what you can when you leave your home as well.
Use Cold Water for Washing Clothes
Do your laundry in cold water. Many of today’s detergents and fabric softeners are much more efficient and don’t necessarily need hot water. Using cold water means you won’t waste energy to start up the water heater.
In the summer months, line-dry your laundry instead of using a dryer. Reducing your use of a dryer can save up to £70 a year in operating costs. Plus, line-drying is easier on your clothes, so you save what you would otherwise spend on wear and tear.
Turn down the temperature
Lower the temperature on your water heater. Most water heaters are set much too high at 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Save energy by turning your water heater down to 120-110 degrees. Don’t worry, the water will still be a comfortable temperature.
Add Insulation
Most homes are under-insulated, which means heating and cooling systems are forced to work overtime to keep a home comfortable. Add fiberglass insulation to your attic floor and house walls and save up to 20% on heating and cooling costs.
Utilize the Sun
On cool days, take advantage of the sun’s warmth by opening south-facing window blinds and shades; close them at night. On hot days, block out the sun’s warmth by closing these window treatments.
Take advantage of Supplier ‘off peak’
Find out from your supplier when their off-peak electrical rates apply, this can save money each year if you have the flexibility to wash clothes, dishes or heat your water cylinder in off peak times.
You will need to phone your supplier to find out what tariff you are on and see if you can switch to use off-peak electricity. If you are with digital providers such as Octopus, as well as having dual tariffs, they will tell you if there are unscheduled off-peak rates available for you to take advantage of. Shifting to a mixed tariff seems daunting but it can save money on your annual bill.
