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You probably know that your lights and furnace require quite a bit of energy to power your home, and you may even make an effort to turn them down or off when you’re concerned about your bill from the electric company. Does it ever seem like you’re doing everything you can, and your bill increasing […]
You probably know that your lights and furnace require quite a bit of energy to power your home, and you may even make an effort to turn them down or off when you’re concerned about your bill from the electric company. Does it ever seem like you’re doing everything you can, and your bill increasing each month?
Part of your bill may be dependent on current energy costs, and you may not be able to directly impact the price. If you want to have an indirect effect on the cost of energy, you can work to make your home more self-efficient with sustainable resources and a conscious effort to use less energy. You can have a positive effect on the environment and have more money in your wallet each month.
The problem is that it’s tough to know where to start. Simply flipping off lights and fans when you leave a room can save you money, but you must first identify where the biggest energy hogs are in your home before you can implement ways to make your home more efficient. Some energy hogs are quiet and unassuming and may actually surprise you.
The Giant Food Monster in the Kitchen
Up to 20% of your home’s total energy is used by your fridge. Older fridges are less efficient and may use even more energy to keep your food cold and frozen. If you can afford it, upgrade your fridge to a newer model that is more efficient. You’ll notice a difference in your bills quickly.
If you can’t afford the investment in a new fridge, make sure to clean it regularly and keep it away from any heat source. These two simple things can help your fridge run more efficiently and ensure that your food is safe for consumption.
Is that Warm Shower Really Worth it?
Another 20% of your home’s energy costs may come from your hot water system. If you just can’t give up that 20 minute hot shower every morning, try washing your clothes in cold water. Rinse dishes in cold water whenever possible.
Heating and Cooling Can Cost a Fortune
Temperature control is one of the nicest features of most homes. When it’s hot outside, there are few things better than coming in the door to a cool living room. When your toes are freezing, cuddling up under a warm blanket in your warm bedroom is one of the biggest benefits Americans have. The downside is that heating and cooling your home can cost you a fortune and be a serious drain on energy resources.
You can control your electric bill and your energy consumption by tweaking a few simple things in your system.
For a big difference on your bill that wont’ make much difference in your comfort level, drop the temperature on your thermostat by a few degrees.
Only heat or cool areas in your home that you are currently using. Close doors and vents to rooms that are rarely used.
Check your current insulation for leaks and supplement in any areas that are allowing cool or warm air to escape the inside of your home. Proper insulation will help keep your home cool in the summer and warmer in the winter.
Use an air conditioner that is right for the size of the room you are cooling rather than going too big for your home. When purchasing an air conditioner, watch for the energy-efficient label to ensure that you are getting the best deal.
Clean Laundry Doesn’t Come Without a Price
The washing machine is also a huge energy hog in most homes. A good chunk of the energy cost of running your washing machine comes from the heating of the water. You can save money on your electricity bills by washing all loads in cold water. If you’re buying a new washer, choose a front loader, as they are typically more efficient than top loaders.
Entertainment Can Cost You
Your digital cable, satellite, computer and modem may also be using large amounts of energy to run at all hours of the day. Power down all your devices when not in use, and always make sure to unplug any charging devices before you leave the house.
With a little bit of effort, you can make a huge difference in your family’s budget and the effort to conserve the planet for future generations.
