Save money and energy at home with these 10 tips:
- Install ceiling fans (e.g., dining room, bedrooms, living areas, office, etc.) Ceiling fans are an attractive, affordable, low-energy way to keep air moving. This can save you from adjusting your thermostat a few degrees either way in the warmer and cooler months.
- Use a programmable thermostat. This will allow you to schedule automatic increases and decreases in your home’s temperature, like lowering the heat in the winter when you’ll be gone during the day. Installation and use are pretty simple. Do some research online to find the model that best meets your needs and budget.
- Check toilets and under-sink plumbing for potential leaks or if the toilet sounds like it is constantly running – which can cost you big bucks. You can find online guides to help you with simple fixes. For more complicated issues, consult a trusted plumber. Remember the sound of dripping is also money dripping away!
- Buy energy efficient appliances. While you’ll have to front the cost when you purchase the appliance, you’ll notice a difference in your energy bills right away. An energy efficient fridge could last you up to 20 years with proper care, while an older model could bite the dust seven years in.
- Change your lightbulbs. LED and CFL bulbs can save you some serious money. Not only do they have a long life, they save on energy costs too. While CFL bulbs tend to be cheaper, LED bulbs are better in terms of performance, and have come down in cost in the past few years.
- Use a power strip. Plug electronics into a power strip, then save energy by turning the strip off when you aren’t using those items.
- Replace your computer with a laptop. If you don’t need a heavy duty computer at home, buy a laptop instead. It uses less energy. When you’re not using it, turn it off or put it in sleep or hibernate mode.
- Eliminate “hot spots.” Progress-Energy.com says you can eliminate hot spots at home by using high-performance windows, solar window screens and qualified window films.
- Cover bare floors. Install carpeting or area rugs to help your home retain heat in the cooler months.
- Buy an energy-efficient heat pump. You can dramatically reduce your heating costs with an energy-efficient heat pump. Some companies will even offer rebates, so shop online to find discounts and deals.
Homebuyers are interested in energy efficient homes, so these changes can save you money now and make you money later!