Energy Savings 101: Simple Ways to Save

Kelsey Vickers July 21, 2017

From insulation to ventilation and more, your home is sucking energy out of every place it can. If you’re looking for ways to save energy, knowing the right tips, tricks, and machines to use in your home will help you get your home to function at top energy efficiency!

Home Appliances

Washing machines, dryers, dishwashers… the list could go on. The obvious way to save is to use your large appliances during off hours of the day, run them only when full, etc. But what about small counter appliances, ceiling fans, and even outdated machines? To maximize your energy use, it’s best to purchase appliances best rated for energy savings, unplug small appliances when not in use, and always turn your ceiling fans off when they’re done cooling down a room.

Heating and Cooling

It’s important to find a comfortable temperature for your family, both when you are home and when you leave. When you’re not around, you obviously don’t want to overheat or overcool rooms since no one is in the house to benefit from it.

In warmer climates, it’s best to keep shades, drapes, and blinds closed during the hot month. In colder climates, it’s best to let in the natural sunlight and warm your home as much as possible.

Another tip: clean your air vents. The cleaner your vents are, the easier it is for your heating and cooling unit to push air through to heat/cool your home. Your unit doesn’t work as hard if there isn’t dirt and debris to push the air through!

Home maintenance

Check all windows and doors (both inside and out) to make sure they seal for proper insulation. To fix any damaged areas, simply purchasing new weather stripping or caulking usually does the trick. Planting trees is great for the environment but also provides additional shade inside your home when planted near windows. Make sure, though, to keep those trees and branches away from your AC unit.

Small Investments, Big Returns

Small investments, such as switching out each lightbulb in the house to energy efficient LED or compact fluorescent bulbs, can also give you more energy efficiency and save you money. These bulbs use more than half the amount of energy a normal light bulb would! Other small suggestions include covering your bare floors with area rugs to insulate rooms, adding additional insulation to your attic, and taking shorter (and cooler) showers.

If renovating or upgrading your home, make sure to install energy efficient appliances and electronics, consider insulation options and different types of windows.

What energy-saving tips do you and your family practice? Share them with us below of find us on Facebook!