There’s never been a better time to be alive than right now. You can talk to family and friends with the touch of a button, even from the other side of the world. Travel and transportation are simple and efficient, and there’s an app for just about anything.
Along with all these means for living better, however, it’s important to remember that it’s also never been more important to care for our planet. Luckily, thanks to modern technology, this is an easy task too!
By making small changes in your house, you can have a beautiful, modern home that’s also kind to the planet. To learn some of the best ways to make your home more energy-efficient, just keep reading!
1. Be Careful of Energy Vampires
One of the easiest steps you can take toward a green home is to take note of any lurking energy vampires. These are chargers and other electronics that consume energy even when you aren’t using them.
The best way to avoid the energy drain is to use power strips. If you plug all your desktop computer components into a power strip rather than the wall, for example, you can turn the strip off when you aren’t using it. This stops energy vampires in their tracks!
2. Adjust Your Habits
Another simple yet effective means of using less energy in your home is to adjust your energy-using habits. First, be sure to turn lights and power strips off when you leave a room, and turn the water off while you’re brushing your teeth or shaving.
You can also keep your thermostat a few degrees lower or higher, depending on the weather. This puts less demand on your HVAC system and uses less energy as a result.
Finally, wash all clothes in cold water, when possible. Except with towels and similar fabrics, cold water washes just as well as hot but uses a fraction of the energy.
3. Use Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs
If you still use incandescent light bulbs, it’s time to replace them. Swapping your bulbs out for LEDs or CFLs is an easy house improvement project that makes a big difference.
The average home contains 50 light bulbs! When each of them is switched to a greener option, you’ll save more money on your energy bill than you might think.
4. Install Solar Panels
Unlike the other options listed here, solar panels are a bit of an investment. However, it’s an investment that pays for itself in the long run.
How? Well, installing solar panels will drastically cut down on your energy bills. Not to mention, you get tax incentives every year you have them.
If you’re not sure if solar panels are in the budget for you, don’t be afraid to reach out to a solar provider near you. They can give you a free estimate, as well as an overview of how solar power will work with your specific home.
5. Seal Your Home
If your home is not sealed well from the elements, you’re going to spend more on heating and air conditioning, which can have a huge effect on your power bill.
Your local electric company should offer free energy audits in which they inspect your home and give you a list of recommended improvements.
For those for whom this isn’t an option, simply go through your home and take note of any drafty windows and doors. You’ll be surprised by what a difference weatherstripping, a little silicone caulk, and storm doors can make.
Take Steps Toward Energy Efficiency and Start Living Better
When you live in an energy-efficient home, you can breathe easy knowing you’re living better and doing your part for the planet at the same time. And, as you can see, energy efficiency doesn’t require spending a fortune.
Are there energy-saving investments you can make? Sure. But for the most part, it’s about taking small steps toward a more eco-conscious lifestyle.
To learn more about making improvements in your day-to-day life while helping the planet, take a look at our blog!
