Every October, families across America are reminded by Energy Awareness Month to think about how they can improve their energy efficiency at home.
We’ve discussed at length how adding insulation to your home is the best method to reduce energy consumption. In fact, heating and cooling costs make up over half of your energy use. But what else can you do? To mark Energy Awareness Month, we’re sharing our best advice on how to reduce your energy consumption at home.
6 tips to improve your energy efficiency
- Have a home insulation inspection
We offer a free home insulation inspection to identify where you are losing your expensive, conditioned air and identify other opportunities to reduce your overall energy consumption. Like a check-up with your doctor, this is a chance to make sure that your home is as energy efficient as possible. - Unplug your phone charger (and other appliances)
When you leave your phone charger plugged in it draws on electricity, even if your phone is not connected. This is also true of other common household appliances, like your television and toaster. Reduce your energy consumption by 5-10% by unplugging these energy vampires! - Maintain your HVAC unit
Taking care of your HAVC system can improve its efficiency. Changing your filters and cleaning the vents on a regular basis will ensure that air flow isn’t disrupted and your family stays comfortable. According to the US Department of Energy, you could be wasting 25-40% of the energy you spend on heating and cooling your home because clean HVAC systems don’t have to work as hard to maintain your desired temperature. - Install a programmable thermostat
A programmable, or smart, thermostat helps regulate the temperature of your home so that you don’t waste energy heating or cooling your home when you’re not there, but come home or wake up to a comfortable indoor temperature. A programmable thermostat also helps to regulate energy use as you don’t need to over work your HVAC system to get to the desired temperature quickly. - Use Energy Star approved appliances
We’re not saying to go out and replace all your appliances right now, but as your washer, dryer, refrigerator, and other appliances need to be replaced, invest in energy efficient models. You’ll know the machine is energy efficient because it will wear the Energy Star logo. - Insulate and air seal your home
We talk about this a lot and we’re not sorry. One of the best things you can do to improve your energy efficiency at home is to install effective insulation and seal any air leaks. USA Premium Foam® Insulation has an R-value that is 35% higher than other forms of insulation, which means it is more resistant to temperature changes and keeps your home comfortable, no matter what’s going on outside.
So, take action now! Not only is October Energy Awareness month, but winter is coming. Insulate your home now for a cozy winter and savings on your energy bills.
