Modern society has the advantage of modern technology. Smart technology has made transportation, heating, and cooling energy efficient and relatively inexpensive. Now, more than at any other time in modern history, humanity has the option to make their home energy efficient. The following are a few tips that can help those looking to go green and accomplish this goal.
Lower Your Thermostat
You can lower your energy bills and lower the impact your home has on the environment by lowering the temperature of your thermostat when you are away from home. Simply dropping the temperature by a couple of degrees can drastically reduce your utility bill and will use less energy. For every degree you drop your thermostat, you lower your utility bill and energy usage by one percent.
Install Low-Flow Shower Heads
The vast majority of the water that comes out of a normal showerhead is wasted. You are paying for water that is literally going down the drain. The water then needs to be purified, which requires energy, before it can be suitable for use by the public again.
You can minimize the amount of water you use by installing low-flow showerheads. Low-flow showerheads dispense water at a rate of 2.5 gallons per minute. Conventional showerheads use five gallons per minute.
Turn off Unnecessary Water
The average homeowner can save substantial money each year by making minor tweaks to their water usage. For example, instead of letting the water run while you brush your teeth, get your toothbrush wet and turn off the water. The same principle applies while shaving.
Another example is bathing versus showering. Taking a warm bath is relaxing. However, bathing requires approximately 75 gallons of water. The average shower requires 17.2 gallons. If you install low-flow showerheads, you are able to reduce water usage substantially.
Washing laundry is another area where homeowners can reduce costs, minimize water usage, and protect the environment. Avoid running half loads in your wash machine. Using a full load means that you can wash more clothes at one time. This saves water and saves money
Seal All Windows
In parts of the country like Kansas City, where residents experience the four seasons, windows keep the cold air in during the summer and the hot air in during the winter months. In these areas, it is essential to seal all windows and doors.
If your windows are drafty, you can add weather-stripping around the frames. Sealing gaps and cracks is an inexpensive way to reduce costs and improve energy efficiency.
Some homeowners in Kansas have evaluated the situation and determined that having a Kansas City windows and doors expert review their home and suggest changes is the best option. New windows and doors can do a lot to improve the energy efficiency of the home, improve its appearance, and improve its overall value.
Install Solar Panels
Installing solar panels is not cheap. However, they more than pay for themselves in reduced energy usage in the long run. Solar panels are great for the environment because they promote reduced fossil fuel use and allow you to qualify for certain tax incentives. In most cases, solar panels are installed on a home’s roof. However, some individuals who have ample land may install solar panels on the ground in areas not blocked by other buildings.
Do an Energy Audit
Although you may think that you are doing things in the most energy-efficient way possible, an energy audit can help evaluate the inefficiencies and wasted energy in your home. An auditor can inspect your home and identify areas that need improvement. Auditors will charge a reasonable fee for their service. However, you are typically able to recoup those expenses by the money you save from reduced energy usage.
Change Your Desktop for a Laptop
You should, according to experts, replace your computer every four years. If you will replace your computer soon, consider switching out your desktop for a laptop. Laptops use up to 80 percent less energy than desktops. At their peak, most laptops will draw around 60 W. However, desktops will draw, at their peak, up to 175 W. Laptops are more expensive than desktops, but they are the energy-efficient option
Conclusion
Taking steps to make your home more energy-efficient requires some forethought and effort. However, in the long run, you will save money. You will have the satisfaction of knowing that you are doing your part to protect the environment.
Author: Sheryl Wright
