Looking for ways to reduce your energy usage to save some money? Learn some easy ways here!
Home energy usage has been in the spotlight for a couple of decades now, and many homeowners may be overwhelmed by the number of methods employed. The motivations are numerous, from a desire to be more environmentally conscious, to boosting their home value with energy efficient appliances, to simply looking to save money on energy bills every month. No matter what your motivation is, we have a few simple ways you can save energy at home.
Minimizing Phantom Loads
Have you ever heard the advice “unplug electronic devices when not in use”? It turns out that, in the average home, 75 percent of the electricity used to power electronics at home is used why the products are turned off. This is what’s called “phantom loads”, and you can eliminate them by unplugging devices and turning off power strips when not in use.
Changing Light Bulbs
One of the least expensive ways you can save energy in your home is by replacing your light bulbs. New compact fluorescent light bulbs cost a few dollars a piece but save around $30 each over its lifetime and last 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs. If you’re worried that CFLs contain mercury, they do not release it while in use and actually lessen mercury emissions since they reduce the need for power plants.
Installing a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats are a little expensive but can easily pay for themselves over time with the amount of money you may save. They can automatically adjust the temperature in your home according to your schedule, using less energy when you’re away from home. Some even have motion detectors that can do this automatically without the need for programming it. Smart thermostats can save you as much as 15% on your heating and cooling costs a month.
Sealing Air Leaks
The fall and upcoming winter seasons may increase your energy usage if your home is insufficiently sealed. Air leaks can make energy figuratively leak away and increase your heating bills. By improving the insulation in your home and sealing air leaks, homeowners stand to save up to 10% every year on their energy bills. If you’re unsure how to search for leaks, you could also hire a professional team to find them and seal them for you.
Buying Your Home With Clagett Enterprises
Clagett Enterprises is a full-service real estate company with almost 30 years of experience in the Frederick and Western Maryland area. For assistance selling your home and getting the best possible price, contact us online or give us a call at 301-665-6009. To meet our team and see some of our beautiful homes, follow us on Facebook,Twitter, Pinterest, and Google+.