For most of us, electricity and gas are essential amenities to lead a comfortable life at home. That being said, are you tired of the monthly grind of paying high energy bills? Improving your home’s energy efficiency is a long-term solution to keep your utility bills in check. Moreover, enhanced energy efficiency will also allow you to reduce your carbon footprint.
In this post, we’re sharing some useful ways you can upgrade your home’s energy efficiency and enjoy greater savings. Take a look.
1. Additional Layer of Insulation
Your home probably has some degree of insulation. But is it enough? A light layer of insulation may not entirely protect your home from energy loss. It is worthwhile to consider additional layers of insulation in vulnerable areas. You should particularly focus on attics, basements, walls, and floors.
2. Don’t Overlook Window Treatment
A sheer, delicate curtain may look lovely, but it could also be the reason for high heating or cooling needs. Replace such curtains with a more heavy-duty window treatment. During winters, you should make it a habit to pull back the curtains and let daylight naturally warm up your house.
3. Find the Right Energy Plan
There are several energy providers offering a wide range of electricity and gas plans in deregulated states. Instead of sticking to an overpriced energy plan, you should compare various options and switch to a better one. If you’re searching for a competitively-priced plan, check out AGL Energy plans.
4. Install Solar Panels
Completely relying on a retailer for your energy needs is driving up your bills. By installing a solar panel, you can partially meet your energy needs at a lower cost. Not only is solar power a cheaper source of energy, but it is also renewable and better for the environment.
5. Carry Out Routine Maintenance
From your HVAC unit to boiler, it’s important to routinely and timely service all your appliances. Prompt maintenance ensures that appliances work optimally and don’t consume more energy than required.
6. Replace Outdated Appliances
Apart from not working properly, outdated appliances also over-consume energy. It’s time to replace such appliances with newer models. When shopping for appliances, always look for Energy Star ratings. Replacing your outdated central heating systems can also be one of the most effective means of making your home energy efficient. If you’re looking to get a new boiler to replace your old and inefficient one, make sure you get the best combi boiler for the best results.
7. Get a Smart Thermostat
Adjusting the thermostat according to fluctuating energy requirements during the day is a reliable way to dial back your consumption. A smart thermostat enables you to automate this process and ensure economic energy consumption.
8. Conduct an Energy Audit
Are you finding it difficult to figure out which areas of your home are leading to energy loss? By conducting an energy audit, you can determine such limitations and find suitable ways to improve them. An energy auditor will give you a comprehensive review of your home’s energy usage and help discover energy-efficient measures.
9. Seal Doors & Windows
Gaps in your doors and windows let heating and cooling escape, forcing your HVAC to work harder to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. Find the right weatherproofing solution to properly seal your doors and windows. This simple and affordable improvement does make a difference.
10. Switch Inefficient Lighting
Halogen and incandescent lights may be cheaper but aren’t the most energy-efficient option out there. Switch such fixtures with LED lights. Apart from being highly energy-efficient, LEDs also last much longer. Furthermore, for outdoor lighting, you should consider installing solar garden lights.
The Bottom Line
Whether you’re trying to incorporate sustainable practices or simply hoping to lower your electricity bills, making your home more energy efficient is a reliable way to achieve both of those goals. Along with lowering your energy consumption and wastage, the aforementioned improvements will also add value to your property.
