How to Reduce Energy Use in Your Home

Summer is here and it is important to make sure your home can handle the heat!

Decreasing your energy bill doesn’t only save your pocket but, it will also help in the fight against our over reliance on fossil fuels to power our homes. These tips will help you decrease your energy usage and ultimately lead to a decrease in your energy bill:

Seal Your Home

When the mercury climbs, you’ll be using your air conditioner a lot more. If you have air leaks, you force your AC system to work harder. Sealing the leaks in your home will save you up to 30 percent on your energy bill. Leaks are typically found on doorways and windows, but make sure to check lesser-known culprits like electrical outlets and dryer vents. Once you find the holes, use caulk and weather-stripping material to seal them. You can also hire professionals to do a complete house audit.

Upgrading Your Home’s Lighting

Change out energy-sucking incandescent and CFL light bulbs to more efficient LEDs. CFLs are fairly efficient, but contain mercury, which is harmful to the environment. A single LED will last you 40 to 50 years, and a household with 25 LED bulbs will incur a savings of round $6,700 compared to incandescent bulbs. Go a step further by using natural light. If you have space to install larger windows that will help increase the amount of light that goes into your home, you can also regulate the amount of light (and heat) that comes with shades from a company like the Shade Store to help.

Harness the Energy of the Sun

Switching to solar is another way to reduce your energy bill. Although startup costs are high, you will see the savings relatively soon. You will also have the peace of mind that you are cutting down on your carbon footprint by using the rays of the sun. Elon Musk recently made an announcement that his company, SolarCity, is purchasing solar panel maker Silevo in an effort to create more solar panels and ultimately make solar energy more cost efficient.

Upgrade Home Appliances

It may be time to upgrade your home appliances, as well. Energystar.gov has a comprehensive list of the most energy efficient appliances, including everything from DVD players to air conditioners to refrigerators. Energy Star appliances will cost more than those that are not certified, but you will notice the savings on your next energy bill. Also, remember when you are upgrading your appliances to get rid of old ones. Refrigerators are the most common appliances that residents keep once they have gotten a new one; they also waste the most energy.

What other tips do you have? Make sure to keep add any more energy saving tips below in the comment section!