10 Ways to Cut Your Energy Costs at Home

As energy rates continue to rise, you are probably on the lookout for tips to cut back your usage and save money. While big-ticket investments like replacing the windows or installing high-efficiency HVAC systems can help make your home more efficient, you can cut energy costs sooner with little to no up-front investment. Here’s what to do. 

1. Replace the HVAC Air Filter

Check the filter monthly and swap it out when it looks dirty, or every three months, whichever comes first. The cost of a new filter pays for itself by promoting efficiency, guaranteeing proper airflow, and preventing the HVAC equipment from getting too hot. Your home will also feel more comfortable and have healthier indoor air with a new filter in place. 

2. Change Your Thermostat for Energy Savings 

Maintain the temperature around 70 degrees or lower through the winter and raise it to 77 degrees or higher in the summer. Then, wear clothing that suits the season to help you stay comfortable. 

3. Put in a Programmable Thermostat

If you’re still using an old manual thermostat, upgrade to a programmable model. A smart thermostat pays for itself quickly via energy savings by letting you program setback schedules while you’re at work or in bed. Automatic temperature recovery means you save money without ever dealing with an uncomfortable home. Try to find a smart Wi-Fi thermostat you can set up remotely for even more opportunities to save. 

4. Implement Yearly HVAC Maintenance

Preventative maintenance provides a great return on investment. First, it pays you back by lowering your energy bills. After all, a well-maintained HVAC system runs more efficiently than a neglected one. You also lessen the risk of breakdowns and the required repair costs. Additionally, your equipment is bound to run for a few years longer when you keep up with maintenance today. 

5. Uncover and Fix Air Leaks 

Air leaks can develop wherever two building materials are found. Locate and seal these leaks to keep your home comfortable and decrease the strain on your HVAC system. Here are a few tips: 

• Remove and replace old weatherstripping to ensure windows and doors shut more tightly.  
• Re-caulk stationary cracks around windows and doors to seal out air leaks. 
• Put in expanding spray foam near wiring, plumbing, ductwork, and other penetrations in your walls, ceilings and floors.  
• Shut the fireplace damper anytime a fire isn’t being lit. 

6. Use Solar Heat Gain to Your Benefit

Through the summer, your goal is to reduce solar heat gain. Closing reflective curtains over the windows during the afternoon is a simple way to accomplish this. If your budget allows, you can also plant trees on the south and west sides of your home. By choosing deciduous trees, you can enjoy plenty of shade in the summer while still helping the sun to heat your home for free in the winter. 

7. Use Water Wisely 

Conserve this important resource and save on your water bills with the following tips: 

• Take short showers as opposed to longer baths. 

• Secure low-flow showerheads and aerated faucets. 
• Turn off the water when you’re shaving and brushing your teeth. 
• Repair drippy faucets, running toilets, and leaky pipes as quickly as possible. 

8. Keep Electronics Off

Plug computers, printers, TVs, Blu-ray players, game consoles and other electronics into power strips. This way, you can shut them off with the flip of a switch when you are not using them. Additionally, unplug cell phone chargers and other adapters when you don’t need them to minimize small amounts of “phantom” energy use. 

9. Swap Out Your Light Bulbs

Do you still have old incandescent bulbs around the house? Swap them out with LEDs to save up to 70 percent on your lighting bills. Bulb replacement costs also decline as LEDs live about 25 times longer than incandescent lights. 

10. Use Appliances Efficiently

Appliances are the energy hogs of the home. Lower costs with any of these tips: 

• Close windows and doors when using the furnace or air conditioner. 

• Turn down the water heater temperature to 120 degrees and wrap it in an insulating blanket. 
• Only run the dishwasher and washing machine with full loads. 
• Switch off the heated-dry feature on your dishwasher. 
• Hang your clothes outside to dry when you’re able to. 
• Reheat food in the microwave instead of the oven or stove, especially on summer afternoons. 

• If the utility provider charges more for electricity around “peak times,” aim to use your appliances during low-peak periods. 

Get Help Cutting Home Energy Costs

Many cost-cutting measures are directly related to your home heating, cooling and plumbing systems. If you need help applying these tips, get in touch with Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We supply affordable maintenance and repair service, as well as cost-effective installation and replacement services. In addition, with financing options available, even larger upgrades will fit your budget. For more information about our services or to request an estimate, please contact your local Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing office today.