Caring about the environment and being “green” can be easier than you think as a homeowner. Believe it or not, even small changes in your home can have an impact on your energy use (and your bills). Many can be easy to implement and are inexpensive too.
Here are some easy DIY fixes that you can do today or over a weekend to make your home more energy efficient.
1. Get a Programmable Thermostat.
This works very well for those of you who have a routine daily and weekly schedule. It allows you to schedule your home’s temperature automatically depending on your daily routine – increasing when getting up, decreasing when you’re at work, increasing when you come home, and decreasing when you head to bed.
There are so many product selections out there with high-tech features such as motion sensors. So you don’t have to stress about forgetting turning off the AC while traveling!
A programmable thermostat is certainly not for everyone as some people don’t have a routine schedule or prefer to manually set the thermostat. Evaluate your home needs and pick the best one!
2. Install the Correct Lightbulbs for Your Needs.
With the use of incandescent bulbs a memory now, buying lightbulbs can be confusing! Before you go to the store (and pay for new bulbs), make sure you understand the differences between LEDs, CFLs, Halogens, and dimmables so you don’t waste money on the wrong bulb.
The technology keeps changing and improving than the earlier ones so you might find one you like better now. Since these lightbulbs can last longer and are more expensive, make sure the manufacturer has a good refund or exchange program if something does go wrong.
3. Hang Laundry on Clothes Drying Rack.
Hanging clothes to dry may seem like you’re back in pioneer days but try it. Get in the habit of hanging some of your clothes on a foldable drying rack rather than in the dryer. Your clothes, your utility bill, and the environment will thank you!
This can help you cut down on the number of loads you put in the dryer each week – which translates to less electricity used. If you have a patio or porch, you can put your rack outside for even quicker drying. (Or get a traditional clothesline to go old school.)
4. Install Ceiling Fans.
Ceiling fans might not be the most aesthetically pleasing fixtures, but they can help your rooms stay cooler. There are more stylish designs to choose from now that could blend in with your rooms so don’t cross this off your list!
Fans can be a low-energy way to keep air circulating so you can keep your AC temperature set higher in the summer and still achieve the same feel.
5. Insulate Exposed Water Pipes.
Wrap your hot water pipes in the garage with pipe insulation so they don’t lose heat as the water makes it way to your faucets. It can make a two-to-four-degree difference. Check the pipes coming out of the hot water heater and insulate at least the first three feet.
6. Double Check Vents.
Walk around your home and make sure you’re not blocking your air vents with furniture or stuff. You want this air flow to circulate efficiently to avoid having the heating and cooling blowing constantly. Also get them dust-free too.
7. Plant a Tree.
We talked about this one in last week’s article. Having a shade tree can help cool your home during hot summers, especially if the sun is shining directly on your roof.
You’ll feel the difference since it can be 10% cooler in the shade. You and your home will be much happier since less AC will need to be cranking. And with less direct sunlight on your home, you’ll save energy costs.
Plus, if your backyard is shaded by a tree, you’ll more likely to actually use the space in summer!
Don’t forget about energy tax credits that many cities and states offer when you do any energy improvements. Let me know if you have any questions about these easy energy saving tips!
Buyer
My Listings
owner
