There’s nothing worse than getting an energy bill and seeing a number that looks way bigger than we imagined. Especially after a cold winter or a scorching summer, those energy bills can sometimes double or triple.
When it comes to our homes, how much energy we’re using directly affects the amount we’re spending each month. No one wants energy going to waste when you’re paying so much for it.
We’re all looking for ways to save money and energy in our homes, and when we invest in long-term energy saving solutions, it helps ensure we’re doing everything you can to make sure you’re saving what you can.
It can be hard to pin-point exactly what’s making your energy bill spike. However, taking all of these tips into consideration can help narrow down your energy spending. What’s more, they’re great pointers that will help you invest in your home. While your home is a place for you to thrive, it’s also an investment that you hope to get a significant return on in the future.
Install Window Film
Residential window tinting is an innovative, long-term solution to make your home more energy efficient. These window films, when professionally installed, protect your home and your skin by blocking out dangerous UV rays. On top of that, they’re super energy efficient and take little to no upkeep.
No need to cover your windows with curtains or blinds to try and keep the heat out – you can still enjoy your beautiful views with window tint and not have to worry about your AC working overtime and wasting energy.
When you get sun control window tinting on your home windows, you’re regulating the sun’s heat getting into your home. Window tinting can reduce home cooling costs up to 30% – meaning you’re using way less energy without having to block out any sunshine.
Check Your Furnace
Depending on the age of your furnace, your HVAC system’s performance can seriously make or break your energy bill. A well-working, energy-efficient furnace guarantees you’re not losing unused energy as your furnace converts fuel into energy.
The average furnace is roughly 85% efficient, when measured by Annual Fuel Utilization (AFUE) rate. A well-taken-care-of furnace can be 95% energy efficient, saving you a ton of energy and money.
Keeping up on maintenance for your furnace – making sure there are no clogged filters or ducts – is crucial on top of your energy usage, as it will make sure there’s nothing stopping your heating system from malfunctioning.
Air Seal Your Windows and Doors
Have you ever walked past a window in your house and felt a cold draft slip in? These little drafts are wasting more energy than you realize.
Especially with older doors and windows, it can be difficult to regulate how much heat or cold air you’re losing. These air leaks can also lead to a boat-load of other home-related problems as well, so it’s best to get these sealed up ASAP.
Once you’ve identified where your air leaks are, you can start looking at different solutions.
Air sealing your windows and doors can be done in several different ways, including:
- Caulking air leaks
- Hiring an energy assessor
- Foam sealant
- Spray foam
- Replacing old windows and doors with more energy-efficient upgrades
- Weatherstrips for your doors
Use a Smart Thermostat
When you think of saving energy in your home, regulating your AC and heating use comes to mind. A smart thermostat is a great investment to keep track of your heating and cooling.
Smart thermostats can be programmed in different ways to make sure you’re not wasting any energy when you’re not home – and you can monitor it from your mobile device. The ability to track your energy usage and savings through your thermostat empowers you to stay on top of what you’re spending energy-wise. When you see how much heat or cooling is being wasted when you’re not home, you’ll find that you’re being more energy efficient, thanks to your thermostat.
What’s more, smart thermostats have several other key features, including monitors for allergy defense and other indoor air quality metrics. When you invest in a smart thermostat, you’re also investing in your health.
Save On Energy Today
Investing over time will guarantee you’re saving energy for the planet – and your wallet!
When you make an energy-saving commitment in your home, you’re going to see noticeable improvements in your energy bills – while also making key investments by adding a smart appliance and other energy-saving repairs.
