How to Make Your Home More Energy-Efficient

Building an energy-efficient home doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. In fact, following a few tips can make your home more comfortable and save you money on your energy bill each month. Here are eight easy ways to get started:

 

1. Get an energy audit

An energy audit is the first step to saving money and making your home more efficient. Energy audits assess how much energy your home uses and identify areas where improvements can be made. Many utility companies offer free or discounted energy audits, so check with your provider.

 

2. Install weather stripping and caulking

Weather stripping and caulking are two of the easiest and most effective ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency. By sealing gaps and cracks around doors and windows, you can prevent heat from escaping in the winter and cool air from running in the summer.

 

3. Upgrade to energy-efficient windows

Windows are one of the most significant sources of heat loss in a home. If your windows are more than a few years old, consider upgrading to energy-efficient models. Energy-efficient windows can help reduce your heating and cooling costs by up to 30 percent.

 

4. Insulate your home

Proper insulation is essential for an energy-efficient home. Attic insulation, in particular, can make a big difference in your energy bills.

 

5. Get a programmable thermostat

A programmable thermostat is a great way to save energy and money. By setting your thermostat to automatically lower the temperature when you’re away from home or asleep, you can reduce your energy usage by up to 30 percent.

 

6. Use ceiling fans

Ceiling fans can help keep your home cool in the summer and improve heating efficiency in the winter. In the summer, ceiling fans create a cooling breeze that allows you to feel comfortable at a higher temperature. In the winter, ceiling fans can help circulate warm air and reduce your heating costs.

 

7. Use energy-efficient lighting

Energy-efficient lighting is one of the easiest ways to save money and energy in your home. For example, compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) use 75 percent less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last up to 10 times longer.

 

8. Educate your family

One of the best ways to save energy is to educate your family about simple ways to conserve energy. For example, encourage your kids to turn off lights when they leave a room and unplug electronics when not in use. Setting a good example is also important—if you practice energy-saving habits, your kids are more likely to do the same.

 

Following these tips can save you money and make your home more comfortable. You can make a big difference in the energy your home uses by taking small steps.