Tips For Reducing Your Home Energy Usage
Cutting back on energy consumption isn’t just about saving money—it also makes your home more eco-friendly. While some expenses like medical copays or garbage collection fees are fixed, energy costs can be reduced by adjusting how power is used inside your house. Plenty of household activities, while enjoyable and convenient, contribute to energy usage. By being mindful of daily habits, significant reductions in energy consumption become possible. Here’s a look at some effective strategies for bringing down energy costs.
Turn Off Electronics When Not in Use
An easy way to start reducing energy use is by switching off electronics whenever they’re not needed. Lights, fans, and even devices like computers should be powered down as soon as they’re not in use. Many devices, such as televisions and chargers, continue to draw power even after being turned off, known as “phantom load.” To stop this waste, unplug devices or use power strips that can cut power to multiple gadgets at once.
Get Smarter About Thermostat Settings
Your thermostat holds the key to significant energy savings. According to the EPA, turning your thermostat back by 7 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit for at least eight hours a day can lower your heating and cooling costs by as much as 10 percent annually. While results vary by climate, the closer the indoor temperature is to the outdoor air, the less energy your HVAC system consumes. For optimal results, aim for 68 degrees Fahrenheit during winter days and 78 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer.
Programmable and smart thermostats are game changers. They adjust automatically based on your schedule, ensuring the house is comfortable when you wake up or return. Plus, smart thermostats let you control settings remotely, making it even easier to manage energy use throughout the day.
Invest in Thermal Curtains
Thermal curtains add an extra layer of defense against energy loss. These special curtains insulate your home, keeping the interior cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Heat-blocking curtains stop hot solar rays from entering through the windows, while in the winter, they keep warm air inside. Depending on the type and thickness of the curtain, energy loss through windows can be reduced by up to 25 percent. Some studies suggest that windows can account for as much as 30 percent of heat gain during the summer, making thermal curtains an essential tool for cutting energy use.
Use Ceiling Fans Wisely
Though ceiling fans don’t actually lower the temperature in a room, they create a cooling effect by moving air around. As a result, you can set the thermostat a bit higher without sacrificing comfort. Since fans use less energy than an air conditioning unit, this small adjustment can lead to noticeable savings. However, always turn fans off when leaving a room, as they only cool people, not spaces.
Reevaluate Laundry, Dishes, and Fridge Use
Energy savings are possible by changing how everyday tasks like laundry and dishwashing are handled. Stick to cooler water temperatures when washing clothes, and always run full loads to get the most out of each cycle. The same goes for your dishwasher—wait until you can run a full load and choose shorter cycles whenever possible.
Refrigerators also use a significant amount of power. To cut back, keep the fridge at a temperature between 37 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit, while the freezer should stay around five degrees Fahrenheit. Keeping the fridge full helps reduce the energy needed to cool its contents, though overcrowding can block airflow and strain the system.
Cook Efficiently
Large ovens use substantial amounts of energy, not just for cooking but also by raising the temperature in the kitchen. Rely on smaller appliances like toaster ovens, slow cookers, or air fryers to save energy when preparing meals. When using the oven is necessary, try to cook multiple items at once to make the most of the heat.
Upgrade Home Insulation
Older homes often lack adequate insulation, which allows indoor air to escape easily. Adding insulation, especially in walls and attics, can lead to significant energy savings. The EPA suggests that boosting insulation can cut total home energy costs by up to 11 percent. In colder areas, savings may climb as high as 20 percent. Sealing gaps around windows and doors also prevents drafts, helping maintain a consistent indoor temperature.
Americano Electrical Solutions has over 20 years of experience in Lancaster, Northridge, Canyon Country, and neighboring communities in Los Angeles County. Our team provides expert electrical services, from installation to repair, ensuring every job meets the highest standards of quality and customer care. When you need assistance with electrical systems, Americano Electrical is here to offer reliable solutions.