cold windows. dripping faucets. air filter smog.
All of these problems are frequent in homes across the nation, and they are not just inconvenient—they also cost you money through increased energy costs and higher bills.
According to the Energy Star programme of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, homeowners can reduce their annual energy bills by 5% to 30% by using technologies that help their homes run more efficiently. Do you believe that's not a big deal? According to Energy Star, savings ranging from $105 to $627 could be realised based on normal energy bills.
To us, that sounds fairly nice. And even if you're not the most handy person when it comes to house maintenance, you can still simply assess your energy efficiency on your own. (However, Energy Star advises getting a professional home energy audit to obtain the most value for your money.)
By simply following the advice provided below, you'll learn where energy is lost in your home, how effective your heating and cooling systems are, and how to use less electricity.
To start, below is a breakdown of the typical energy bill for your reference:
29% of heating
Electricity: 21%
Heating of water: 13%
3% cooling
Equipment: 12%
Light: 12%
The air is not here.
If you feel as though you are running the heat constantly to no avail, warm air may be escaping through gaps around baseboards, electrical outlets, windows, or doors. Eliminating these draughts can reduce your annual energy expenditures by up to 30% while also keeping the cool air inside throughout the summer. Check the exterior of your house as well, paying close attention to any spots where two distinct types of construction materials converge. Seal leaks with caulk or weather stripping as soon as you discover them.
Don't put off insulating.
Make sure your walls and ceiling have enough insulation. The attic hatch or entrance needs to be insulated and shut properly. If there isn't enough insulation in the wall, you're likely losing heat in the winter and cool air in the summer. To check, drill a small hole in a closet or another unnoticeable location and stick a screwdriver into the wall.
Examine your HVAC and furnace systems.
Correctly installed and properly operating heating and cooling systems can save you money as well as irritation. Make sure your ducts and pipes are adequately insulated, and hire a professional to inspect and clean your equipment once a year. For forced-air furnaces, filters should be changed every 30 to 60 days or as soon as they get unclean.
Let (effective) light exist
According to Energy Star, there are still inefficient bulbs in more than half of the country's light sockets, and the typical home has roughly 70 plugs. Compared to normal bulbs, LED bulbs use 90% less energy and have a far longer lifespan. After 20 years, many will still be operating.
See how your house compares.
Whether you're a devoted do-it-yourselfer or you're just sick of having to write a sizable monthly cheque to the power company, you may take efforts to save energy. Just keep in mind that after you complete your audit and make your house more energy efficient, choosing how to spend the money you'll save can be the most essential thing of all!
