10 Ways to Cut Your Energy Costs at Home

As energy rates continue to increase, you might be on the lookout for tips to scale back your usage and save money. While big-ticket investments like replacing the windows or installing high-performance HVAC systems absolutely make your home more energy efficient, you can cut energy costs today with very little up-front investment. Here’s how. 

1. Check the HVAC Air Filter

Check the filter monthly and swap it out when it seems dirty, or every three months, whichever occurs first. The cost of a new filter can pay for itself by promoting efficiency, guaranteeing proper airflow, and preventing the HVAC equipment from getting too hot. Your home should feel more comfortable and have healthier indoor air with a clean filter in place. 

2. Adjust Your Thermostat for Energy Savings 

Keep the temperature at 70 degrees or cooler through the winter and raise it to 77 degrees or warmer in the summer. Then, wear clothing that suits the season to help you stay comfortable. 

3. Install a Programmable Thermostat

If you’re still using an old manual thermostat, get a programmable model. A smart thermostat pays for itself quickly via energy savings by enabling you to program setback periods while you’re away or sleeping. Intelligent temperature recovery means you conserve energy without ever feeling uncomfortable. Keep an eye out for a smart Wi-Fi thermostat you can program remotely for additional opportunities to save. 

4. Prioritize Preventative HVAC Maintenance

Preventative maintenance delivers a good return on investment. For starters, it pays you back by lowering your energy bills. After all, a tuned-up HVAC system works better than a neglected one. You also lower the risk of equipment failures and the associated repair costs. In addition, the system is bound to live a few years more when you keep up with maintenance today. 

5. Locate and Fix Air Leaks 

Air leaks can form wherever multiple building materials are found. Locate and seal these leaks to keep your home comfortable and minimize the strain on your heating and cooling. Here are a couple of tips: 

• Remove and replace old weatherstripping to help windows and doors are sealed more tightly.  
• Re-caulk any cracks around windows and doors to seal out air leaks. 
• Apply expanding spray foam around wiring, plumbing, air ducts, and other penetrations in the walls, ceilings and floors.  
• Shut the fireplace damper when a fire isn’t being lit. 

6. Use Solar Heat Gain to Your Benefit

During the summer, the goal is to block solar heat gain. Shutting reflective curtains over the windows in the afternoon is an easy way to do this. If your budget has room, you can also plant trees on the south and west sides of your property. By selecting deciduous trees, you can enjoy plenty of shade for the summer while still allowing the sun to heat your home for free throughout the winter. 

7. Use Water Wisely 

Conserve this important resource and reduce your water bills with the following tips: 

• Take shorter showers rather than long baths. 

• Install low-flow showerheads and aerated faucets. 
• Turn off the water when you’re shaving and brushing your teeth. 
• Repair drippy faucets, running toilets, and leaky pipes as quickly as possible. 

8. Turn Things Off

Plug computers, printers, TVs, Blu-ray players, game consoles and other electronics into power strips. This way, you can turn them off with the flip of a switch when they aren’t being used. While you’re at it, unplug cell phone chargers and other adapters when not in use to avoid small amounts of “phantom” energy consumption. 

9. Replace Your Light Bulbs

Do you still have old incandescent bulbs throughout the house? Swap them out with LEDs to save nearly 70 percent on your lighting bills. Bulb replacement costs also decrease since LEDs last about 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs. 

10. Operate Appliances Efficiently

Appliances are the power hogs of the home. Save money with the following tips: 

• Shut windows and doors when running the furnace or air conditioner. 

• Lower the water heater temperature to 120 degrees and wrap it in an insulating blanket. 
• Only use the dishwasher and washing machine with full loads. 
• Switch off the heated-dry function on your dishwasher. 
• Dry clothes outdoors when the weather is warm. 
• Heat up food in the microwave as opposed to the oven or stove, particularly on summer afternoons. 

• If your local utility provider charges more for electricity through “peak times,” strive to use energy-heavy appliances during low-peak periods. 

Get Help Reducing Home Energy Costs

Many cost-cutting measures relate to your home heating, cooling and plumbing systems. If you need help implementing these tips, get in touch with Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We supply affordable maintenance and repair service, alongside cost-effective installation and replacement services. Plus, with financing options available, even larger upgrades will suit your budget. For more info about our services or to request an estimate, please contact your local Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing office today.