If you’re running your household on a budget, you are not alone. With rising food costs (hello $7 eggs) and general inflation, many families are looking for ways to save money in both the short and long term. One of the ways you can do that is by making your home more energy efficient.

Bringing down your utility bills is just one of the reasons why it’s worth looking into energy efficiency. It’s also really good for the environment and can get you federal tax credits. Not sure where to begin? Here’s how to make your home more energy efficient.

1. Adjust your thermostat

Chances are you are running your thermostat too cold in the summer and too hot in the winter. Try to set it at 78F during warmer months and 68F in the cooler months. With every additional degree of cooling or heating, you could be increasing your energy use up to 8%.

2. Install water-saving shower heads

Water efficiency is energy efficiency! Using a shower head that puts out less water cuts down on your water output and your water bill.

3. Seal your windows

If you feel a draft in your home or like there are rooms that never quite warm up or cool down, then you may be dealing with some leaks of air. The best way to fix it is by inspecting your windows and making sure they are properly sealed so all your hot or cool air can’t escape.

4. Use EnergyStar products

If you want to make sure the appliances you use are energy efficient, then you want to make sure they have the EnergyStar seal of approval. All of these products have been vetted and approved by the EPA as energy saving. And some appliances may make you eligible for tax credits. 

5. Swap in LED light bulbs

Here’s a fun fact: LED light bulbs use about 90% less energy than the old 60 and 40-watt incandescent bulbs. If you want to do something fast with immediate results, getting your light bulbs switched to LED will immediately cut down on your energy consumption.

6. Clean or replace filters

Air filters are there to keep particles and debris from flowing into your home air supply. Over time, if the filter is doing its job, it will get clogged up with the debris that it kept out of your HVAC system. If you don’t replace the filter regularly, it could cause your furnace to work harder and require more energy. Make sure you are cleaning or changing your filters every three months to prevent this.

7. Run appliances at night

All appliances give off heat when they are in use. In order to avoid bringing the temperature of your home up during warm summer days, run large appliances like dishwashers or clothes dryers at night when the rest of your appliances are off. 

8. Seal and insulate your attic

It’s not just unsealed windows that can cause drafts. Check on your attic to make sure it is both properly sealed and insulated. With good insulation, your furnace won’t have to work as hard in the winter months.

9. Get your furnace checked

Beyond changing your air filters, it’s good to have regular furnace maintenance. Yearly checks by an expert will help spot inefficiencies, like if your ducts are leaking. Fixing those problems is just another way to make your house energy friendly.

10. Install solar panels

While solar panels are a long-term investment, converting energy from the sun for your home saves energy costs while also cutting down on carbon emissions. Many people choose to install them on their roofs to save space as well.

11. Fix leaky faucets

Little drips add up in a big way. If you are dealing with one or more leaky faucets, then it’s worth getting them fixed ASAP. Even the faintest trickle can cause your water bill to jump. Save money and water when you get the leaks taken care of.

12. Get an energy audit

One of the best ways to make your home more energy efficient is by getting an energy audit. Have a professional come in and give your home a once over. They can spot all the ways you can make big and small improvements to save you money and reduce energy waste in the long run.

Start Saving

Now that you know how to make your home more energy efficient, it’s time to begin the process. Whether it’s getting your HVAC system checked out or having an energy audit, we’re here to help. As summer gets closer, be sure to call us so we can help you keep your home cool and your costs low all season long!