How to make your home energy efficient
Increasing energy efficiency in your home has many benefits. Not only does it reduce utility costs, it also helps secure a future for generations to come. By following these steps, you can be sure your home will have a “green” seal of approval.
Step 1 – When not in use, unplug any laptop or cell phone chargers. Even if the device is not turned on, it can still use power and thus increase your electricity bill.
Step 2: Be sure to seal any holes or potential leak areas in windows and other places. This ensures that heat does not escape during the winter and cool air does not escape in the summer. If these areas have been previously caulked, inspect them to ensure there are no defeating flaws and re-caulk if necessary. In the case of basement windows, they can be sealed with plastic. Use a towel, blanket, or other draft shield on the bottom of doors.
Step 3: During the day, keep all the curtains open to allow sunlight into the house. During the winter, this will reduce the need to adjust the thermostat by allowing a heat source to enter the house. Also, during the summer keep them closed, so as not to add unwanted additional heat.
Step 4: Consider replacing all appliances with more energy efficient models, and remember to include faucets and shower heads. You not only save on electricity, but also on water.
Step 5: Try to wash only full loads of clothes and dishes, not occasional loads, but several smaller loads. Avoid washing dishes by hand if possible. In the warmer months, take advantage of the weather and leave your clothes outside to dry. Putting clothes on clotheslines and larger items on chairs and other plenty of available places outdoors is a wonderful alternative to using the dryer.
Step 6: Plant shrubs and other plants that can provide shade around the house.
Step 7: Replace all light bulbs with CFLs. Not only do they consume less energy, but they last longer than normal light bulbs.