Spring Into Savings: 5 Easy Energy-Saving Tips for Homeowners
The U.S. Department of Energy reports smart appliances can save up to 15% of energy consumption and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 9%. Adjusting your thermostat by 10% to 15% for eight hours a day can also save you 10% a year on your heating and cooling costs.
As a homeowner, you’re no stranger to trying to save on your energy bills. You may have started adjusting your thermostat or investing in smart home technology to support energy conservation and reduce costs. But what are some other simple ways to cut energy costs and boost efficiency in your home? We’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll share five energy-saving tips to reduce your bill and make your home more eco-friendly—all without a major overhaul!
1) Seal Air Leaks
Air leaks are common in many areas of a home, including windows, doors, fireplaces, and ducts. Air ducts, in particular, often have gaps or holes that air leaks through. If your air ducts aren’t properly sealed and insulated, you can lose up to 60% of heated air before it reaches the register. You can prevent drafts and save energy costs by sealing air leaks with caulk, weather stripping, or spray foam. Air leaks are highly wasteful; fixing them is one of the best ways to lower your monthly energy bill.
2) Upgrade Insulation
Proper insulation in attics and walls is paramount to keeping your home comfortable in all seasons. Insulation slows conductive and convective heat flow to create an effective resistance to the flow of heat. Common areas where insulation may need to be upgraded include crawl spaces, attics, exterior walls, and basements. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, homeowners can save up to 20% on their home’s heating and cooling costs by upgrading or adding insulation. Install spray or foam, batts, rolls, loose fill, rigid, or reflective insulation to create a more energy-efficient environment. You may even be eligible for an insulation tax credit which helps offset the cost of installation.
3) Maintain HVAC Systems
Many homeowners underestimate the maintenance required to keep their HVAC systems running efficiently. You should perform regular HVAC maintenance on a consistent schedule, such as changing filters and cleaning vents. It’s recommended that you check your air filters once a month and clean and replace them when necessary. Proper upkeep improves the efficiency and extends the lifespan of your HVAC system, which helps lower energy costs over time.
4) Install Storm Windows
Low-emissivity (low-e) storm windows are another upgrade that homeowners should consider to lower their energy costs. Storm windows effectively reduce airflow into and out of existing windows, which helps reduce heating and cooling costs. Low-e storm window installation provides similar energy savings as a full window replacement but costs significantly less. Storm windows reduce air leakage, reflect radiant heat, and even reduce noise in a home. The cost-savings of low-e storm windows will depend on the current window installed in a home. Modern low-e storm windows come in fixed or operable models to ensure you can still operate your existing windows.
5) Consider Solar Panels
Residential solar electricity can be extremely beneficial to homeowners looking to reduce monthly energy costs. Solar panels can be installed and provide financial returns depending on the size and angle of your roof and the number of hours of direct sunlight it receives daily. This low-risk investment can lower your monthly energy bill and add home value. Solar panels can help homeowners save costs even in The Pacific Northwest, where sunlight isn’t as frequently present.
Cut Home Energy Costs & Lower Your Electric Bill
At PPNW, our electrical professionals are equipped to install energy-efficient solutions such as solar panels, smart home technology, EV charging stations, and more. If you’re looking to start lowering your electric bill, whether it’s through rewiring your home or routine maintenance, PPNW electrical specialists can get the job done right—on time and on budget.
