We all like to look for ways to cut our energy bills. It’s good for our wallets and the environment. If your home isn’t running efficiently, it can cost you a lot more money than it should. Here’s a list of 8 ways to keep your energy consumption lower and start saving you money this summer.
1. Go Solar
Getting solar panels installed will substantially reduce and possibly eliminate your energy consumption entirely. Even a few solar panels will make a huge difference in the energy your home uses. There is currently a 26% FEDERAL ITC tax credit available, and often other incentives through your local utility company for switching over to solar energy.
2. Fix Your Air Leaks
You may not even realize it but you may have leaks around windows, under doors or even through your ceiling. It can cost you a lot more money when you are trying to keep your home or business at a comfortable temperature.
An energy audit will find these leaks and our professionals will be able to seal everything properly to prevent air and moisture infiltration. We can find even small leaks that you likely know nothing about. We can track the airflow in your home and make sure it works like it is supposed to.
3. Insulation
If you are finding your home isn’t warm or cool enough when you are running the heater or the air conditioner, you may have a problem with your insulation. We can perform a thorough check to see if your insulation is evenly spread, up to code and there are no gaps. The roof is often the worst place for losing heat.
There are many different types of insulation and it needs to be installed correctly. It not only works to help control the temperature inside the home but it acts as a protector for the home itself.
4. Regular Maintenance
Your air conditioner and your heating system all need to be taken care of. Regular cleaning and check-up will let you know if there are any problems. Sometimes the vents get blocked or dirty and it prevents it from working properly.
5. Replace Old Appliances
Your old appliances might be costing you a lot more money than you think. That old refrigerator in the garage or the basement might be great for keeping beer cold but it may also be draining your energy.
There are energy-efficiency appliances that will save you money and not use as much energy as your older ones do. Your lighting can also be a drain on your energy and be costing you more than you might think.
6. Smart Thermostat
Installing a smart thermostat means you can control it from your smartphone. Many of these new thermostats will track your habits and program themselves to turn on, off or up and down.
7. Fans and Fresh Air
If you get a good crosswind, open up your windows to cool down the room. Ceiling fans also help circulate the air and keep the temperature down. Pedestal fans can save you from turning on the AC too often.
8. Install an Energy Monitor
Installing an energy monitor, such as a “Sense Energy Monitor, will give you a detailed picture of your energy usage in real-time. Just knowing how you are using energy generally persuades us to be more mindful and reduce our energy consumption.
Schedule an Energy Audit
Contact us today for your home energy audit. We can evaluate how efficiently your home is using and conserving energy. Even small improvements and a few fixes can help make your home much more energy-efficient.
Our team of professionals will be able to spot any energy problems you may have and offer you a solution to start saving energy this summer. We consider how you use energy and when, and pay attention to your budget.
Contact Live Smart Construction to schedule your energy audit and ask us anything you want about saving money and energy this summer. We can help you find ways to reduce your energy needs.