How to make your home more energy efficient

How to make your home more energy efficient

Everyone has first-hand experience of the effects of climate change. This has necessitated a global shift towards energy efficiency. If each person makes just a slight eco-friendly adjustment to their lifestyle then this would positively impact the earth in a massive way. Some minor changes in our heating and cooling needs can make a huge difference. And fortunately, these are changes that each and every one of us can make. Moreover, the technological advances that we’ve made enable for us to live more efficiently. Here are a few ideas on how to make your home more energy efficient.

Reasons to make your home more energy efficient

  • Firstly, energy efficiently will enable you to save money. This is because it is more economical to use alternative energy sources.
  • Secondly, it minimizes the impact of climate change.
  •  It also reduces pollution as alternative energy is cleaner and more sustainable to produce.

Here are a few areas you can focus your efforts on so as to make your home more energy efficient;

Consider alternative ways to heat and cool your home

In most instances the majority of energy used in homes goes towards our heating and cooling needs. As such, just a few alterations to the following items can make all the difference,

  • Replacing air conditioning units with more efficient alternatives. For example, you can use a ceiling fan in place of using air conditioning for your cooling needs.
  • If you must use air conditioning units, then ensure they are periodically serviced to maximize efficiency.
  • Substituting your conventional electrical stove with a gas cooker.
  • Finding alternative ways to insulate your home. For example, keeping curtains drawn is an efficient way to insulate your home.
  • Swapping your electrical unit with a gas heater will help you stay warm during the cold spells.

Use an alternative water heater

You can install and use a tank-less water heater instead of a conventional heater. The tank-less water heater system works by heating water on demand. Standby energy losses linked to conventional storage water heaters are eliminated, thereby saving you a lot of money in the long run. Tank-less water heaters operate by heating water, using gas burners, as it travels through the pipes. As such you do not have to wait for a water tank to fill up with heating water before you can use it.

Substitute incandescent bulbs

Lighting is such a huge component of our energy requirements. Thus, it is important to make energy saving changes in this regard. Halogen bulbs, compact fluorescent lamps, as well as light-emitting diode bulbs are better alternatives to the traditional incandescent light bulbs. Not only do the lighting alternatives last significantly longer, but they are also more energy efficient. Switching to greener lighting options is an excellent way to reduce your electricity bill.

Seal and insulate your home

Sealing your home during the cold season Is a great way to keep the cold air out thereby keeping your home warmer. When your home is naturally heated this will eliminate the need for you to use a heating unit to keep warm. You can also consider using thick ceiling-to-wall curtains to help with insulation.

Efficient shower heads and toilets

Another very important consideration for your home is water conservation. Low-flow shower heads and toilets are an effective way to minimize water usage. You should also be conscious of water wastage through leaks and running water.

Use electricity wisely

Clever and conservative use of electricity makes a huge impact. As a recommendation, use efficient ENERGY STAR-rated appliances and electronics. It is essential to unplug all electrical appliances and charges when they are not in use. This is because they continue to consume energy when they are plugged in.

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