Energy efficiency is one of the secrets behind a sustainable and low-waste life. It minimizes environmental strain, reduces energy bills and carbon footprint, and boosts home resale value. Thus, practicing energy efficiency benefits both nature and humankind.
In this age, where growing energy consumption has become a global concern, enhancing your home’s energy efficiency is significant! So, we’ve listed all the practical and easy ways to embrace it!
Insulate the home
Proper insulation is important to ensure a comfortable indoor temperature all year round. It prevents heat gain during summers and heat loss during winters.
Check the insulation of your attic, floors, and walls once a month and retouch anywhere necessary.
Ensure doors and windows are airtight. Test for air drafts by holding a lit incense stick around closed doors and window frames. If the smoke moves towards a certain direction instead of being vertical, there’s a draft.
Apply caulk around frames or replace weatherstripping. Some also install door sweeps. For windows, you can apply exterior window film in cold months.
You can also switch to double or triple-pane windows. They ensure an ample amount of natural lighting without compromising the insulation quality.
If you have an unfinished basement or any other place with unsealed ductwork, seal the ductwork joints.
Install metal roofing
A metal roof is another smart installation to enhance home energy efficiency. Metal roofing is highly reflective, which reduces the heat absorbed by the home. This keeps it cooler during summer and reduces the need for cooling.
You can also apply a coating of energy-efficient finishes that further boost their heat deflection abilities.
The roofing material is durable and a worthy long-term investment. However, this applies only if you seek a reputable contractor for metal roofing Los Angeles who offers quality-grade roofing materials and installation services!
Unplug electronics when not needed
Many appliances, such as chargers, televisions, game consoles, PVRs, and cable boxes, continuously consume electricity even when the switch is off. This is called phantom power/energy consumption. In fact, it accounts for 75% of the power consumed by an average home’s electronics.
To prevent this from happening, unplug all devices whenever they are not in use. If it’s a hassle to plug them in and out every day, use power strips. This way, you can disconnect multiple appliances at once.
Another choice is to change the power settings of the electronics. For instance, switch on power saving and sleep modes on computers and laptops. Reduce screen brightness in smartphones and TVs.
Use cold water more often
No, there’s no need to take cold showers or wash your hands with cold water in winter.
Instead, use cold water in the washing machine and dishwasher if the clothes/dishes aren’t extremely greasy. Further, room temperature/cold water prevents color bleeding which is an added bonus!
Switch to on-demand water heaters
Tankless or on-demand water heaters are much more efficient and use less energy. They continuously supply hot water unlike traditional options. Though the upfront costs are higher, they are a great choice for enhanced energy efficiency.
However, if you can’t invest in it immediately and have traditional water heaters, wrap it with an insulating blanket. This reduces heat loss and keeps the water warm for longer.
Maintain large appliances
Large appliances, such as refrigerators, washing machines, clothes dryers, and air conditioners, work less efficiently if there’s dust or debris accumulation on the motors.
It makes the machine work harder and consume more energy. So, vacuum the motors and wipe away any remnant dust.
Regularly maintain HVAC systems
Perform at least an annual checkup and servicing on your HVAC system by professionals. This ensures the efficient working of your furnace and air conditioner and even prevents expensive repairs and replacements.
Replace light bulbs
Replace all of the CFL or traditional light bulbs at home and switch to LEDs. LED bulbs have longer lifespans and consume way less energy. They can also save on energy costs!
Prefer ceiling fans
Instead of using the AC continuously, use the ceiling fan to cool when you stay in one room. At night, after your bedroom cools down, switch off the AC and let the fan circulate the cold air.
In winter, instead of consistently using a heater or furnace, switch on the fan in reverse to get warm air.
Conclusion
Enhance your home’s energy efficiency with thoughtful consideration and a combination of these strategies. Remember to not rush things and always seek professionals for the best results!