Energy-efficient homes have higher resale values, offer more comfort and are better for the environment. Make small changes to your home’s insulation, windows, lighting and appliances to maximize energy efficiency.
Even if you don’t own your property, implementing these energy efficient improvements will still help reduce utility bills and carbon footprints. Take it room by room!
Insulation
Insulation prevents heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer, so your heating and cooling systems don’t have to work as hard. This helps reduce energy consumption and lowers your monthly energy bills.
It also reduces noise pollution by preventing transmission of exterior sound and by absorbing reverberating sounds within a space. Depending on the type of insulation used, it can also help control airborne pollutants such as carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide, which contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.
Some regions and governments offer incentives, rebates, or tax credits for homeowners who install insulation in their homes. These benefits can greatly improve the ROI of this energy-efficient home upgrade.
Windows
Window design and placement is a big energy-saving factor in any home or living space. Using windows with Low-E coatings, double or triple paned, to reject the sun’s heat and propel it back towards where it came from can help keep rooms warm in winter and cool in summer. Also consider clerestory windows, which line the top of walls to let in natural light without sacrificing privacy. Similarly, choosing light bulbs that earn the ENERGY STAR label use less energy to produce the same amount of light than traditional bulbs. This is a simple, affordable way to reduce your energy consumption.
Lighting
Lighting is more than lumens and watts; it is the application of light to support the owner’s goals, needs and functions within a space. It can be delivered by a variety of technologies including light bulbs, emergency lights, sunlight or daylighting. Lighting is also used to create visual effects such as displays, artwork and shadow definition. Energy-efficient lighting options save money and reduce the amount of electricity used in a space.
Some products use less energy to produce the same amount of light (like ENERGY STAR®-qualified light bulbs), while others reduce the amount of energy needed to heat or cool the space (such as insulation or windows). Both can help to reduce energy costs and environmental impact.
Appliances
Energy efficient appliances spend less energy to function. Replacing your old incandescent bulbs with LEDs or running a load of laundry on cold water instead of hot are simple ways to save money and reduce energy consumption.
Choosing energy-efficient appliances not only lowers your electricity bills, but also reduces carbon footprint and other greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change. It is a simple way to help Mother Nature and all living things.
Some home appliances have smart applications that provide homeowners with information and reminders about their usage and maintenance. This feature allows them to use these appliances with ease even when they are away from home for long periods. They can adjust temperature settings remotely and monitor their usage. In addition, these appliances are designed to be more durable and require less maintenance than their conventional counterparts. Some appliances are covered under a warranty so if you are asking yourself, “What is a home warranty?” you need to educate yourself to help with potentially saving money.
Furniture
With energy prices on the rise, we’re all looking for ways to reduce our utility bills. Changing out your bulbs to energy-saving LEDs, switching energy providers and even rearranging your furniture can save you money on your gas bill.
Contemporary furniture is often designed with functionality in mind, which can help you conserve energy. For example, a multifunctional chair that doubles as a desk or table can help you minimize clutter and create a more efficient living space.
Make sure to purchase sustainable furnishings and avoid those made with harmful chemicals. These chemicals can cause everything from lowered fertility to liver damage and asthma.
