Whether you want to save money or interested in reducing your impact on the environment, making your home more energy efficient is always a great idea. If you’re looking for a few ways to transform the efficiency of your home without making any major changes, there are several simple life hacks that can help.
Check out this list of seven suggestions that could transform your energy bill without forcing a remodel!
1. LED Lighting
Energy efficient lighting is one of the easiest things you can do to make your home greener. While LED bulbs used to be really expensive, accessibility and reduced production costs have made them a lot more affordable.
Some of your light fixtures are probably modern enough that you can just swap out the bulbs, but you may have to upgrade a few of your lamps or wall sconces with new ones that are compatible with LED bulbs. From LED table lamps to compact fluorescent (CFLs) accent lighting, there are tons of lumens, wattage, and style options to explore.
2. Upgrade Your Windows
One of the biggest reasons your house may be losing heat in the winter and cold in the summer are the windows. The right kind of windows can make a huge difference to your heating or cooling bill!
Any double-paned glass will be better than single pane options, but the best choice is a double-paned style with argon gas between the two panes. Swapping your current windows for those with a low-emissivity coating can save you up to 50% on your energy bill!
Once you get your new window panes installed, decorate them with glass decals to add color instantly to any room.
3. Change Out Your Curtains
Another way to redecorate your space and make your home more energy efficient? Curtains! While this tip might be unexpected, it really works. In the winter, swap out your regular curtains for thermal insulating curtains in a heavy texture. As soon as you close these curtains over your windows, they add another layer of insulation to any room.
4. Focus on Insulation
You’ve already seen a lot of tips about insulating your home with better glass and thicker curtains, but now it’s time to talk about your literal insulation. Every home has layers of material within the walls to maintain the current temperature in your house. However, the quality of the insulation makes a difference.
Upgrade to fiberglass batts in areas that have standard joist spacing, use loose fill for areas with odd spacing or frequent obstructions, and make sure attics and basements have insulated floors and rafters. Just make sure to leave the soffit vents open to ensure appropriate airflow.
5. Upgrade Your Thermostat
While programmable thermostats are new and groundbreaking, many people have yet to transition to these easily controllable units. You should also consider which spaces should have their own independent thermostat to ensure you aren’t heating up the entire house if you’re just sitting in one room.
You should probably break up your HVAC placement by room utility. The kitchen, living room, and dining room can be on one system, while the bedrooms and bathrooms should be on another. Even the guest bedroom should get its own thermostat.
6. Choose Green Appliances
Your big appliances use a lot of energy and you probably run them on a regular basis. Consider replacing your dishwasher, fridge, and washer and dryer with Energy Star certified options. Taking care of your appliances also helps ensure they’re running efficiently.
For example, you’ll need to check the filter system on your dryer for lint regularly and clean the cooling coils of your fridge at least once a year to ensure they’re operating at full capacity!
Some other appliance tips that may enhance your home’s energy efficiency include:
Using a front loading washer to use less water.
Using a front loading dryer that dries more quickly.
Leaving about an inch of space around your fridge to improve air circulation.
7. Fireplace Inserts
Not every home has a fireplace, but if you do, you probably aren’t even aware that you’re losing heat and cold through it.
An insert fits right into your fireplace and reduces air loss during every season. Inserts can come in a number of different styles and aesthetics to ensure it adds to your home decor while improving your energy efficiency.
Which Hack Is Right for You?
While some of these changes are quick and easy, others might require professional installation or a substantial investment. You can start small by changing out your curtains or installing a fireplace insert right away, and move on to bigger remodeling projects later, like replacing your windows or enhancing your installation.
You may find that you don’t even need to apply all these hacks, as you already have some in place! Analyze your home to find its weak spots and adjust accordingly!
Author Bio:
Carolyn Mitchell is a freelance writer, enthusiastic DIYer, and content strategist. She has a passion for home decor and interior design, but also enjoys covering health and wellness, fitness, and holistic living.
