Tips For Saving Energy In The Home

As consumers become more aware of their impacts on the environment

, and the economy remains as challenging as ever, many people are finding ways to save energy and money in their own homes. There are many simple steps to saving energy in the home, from switching to energy efficient light bulbs to taking shorter showers. These minor lifestyle changes can help lower your utility bills while contributing to a safer, greener future. Read on to discover more tips for saving energy in the home through lighting, heating and cooling, and home appliances.

Lighting:

By examining the types of lighting you use in each room and using new lighting technologies, you can reduce the amount of light energy use in your home by 50 to 75 percent. Different types of lighting have different wattages, life spans and purposes, so understanding the right type of lighting for each room can increase energy efficiency indoors and outdoors. Switching to energy-efficient light bulbs can prolong a light bulb's life span. Installing lighting controls allow you to use more or less light in a room, depending on the time of day or occasion. Try to use natural lighting as much as possible by installing windows that face north for relatively even, natural light with little glare and heat. Always remember to turn off lights when not in use.

Heating and Cooling:

About 56 percent of the energy used in your home is from heating and cooling. Saving on heating and cooling can help you significantly lower your energy consumption and utility bills. When installing or replacing your heating or cooling system, be sure to do your research and understand exactly which type of system works best for your needs and climate. In addition to using an effective and energy-efficient heating and cooling system, it is also important to properly insulate and seal your home. The air and heat that leaks out of your home can contribute to more energy waste and higher bills.

Appliances:

There are many energy-efficient appliances that can help reduce a home's energy use, including washers and dryers, dishwashers, water heaters, refrigerators and more. The U.S Department of Energy and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency have established the Energy Star label, which appliances display if they have met the government's strict energy efficiency criteria. Most of today's homes have at least one computer, which can be powered down or set on sleep mode to help save energy. Keep in mind that screen savers are not energy savers.

Home Energy Audits:

Home energy audits performed by a professional can help you identify problem areas in your home that you may not have been aware of. Leaks in the home that are not visible to the naked eye can be detected through infrared thermography. Within days, the professional home energy auditor should provide a detailed report of the energy efficiency of your home, including a list of prioritized recommended improvements. From there, you can develop an effective plan for saving energy and money in your household.

by: Jeff Pizzino

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