More and more people want to make their homes energy efficient to save money and increase the value of their houses. As a result, we have put together this list of energy saving tips. Here are small ways and big ways to save energy in your home.
1. Change your air filter
Dirty HVAC filters slow down air flow and make your system work harder to warm and cool your home. That’s wasted energy. Changing the air filter every 90 days prevents dirt buildup that can lead to expensive system maintenance and repairs.
2. Tune-up your heating & cooling system
An annual heating and cooling system tune-up can improve efficiency, comfort, and longevity. Refer to Energy Star’s® maintenance checklist and its guide to finding the right contractor.
3. Install a programmable thermostat
This is useful when you are frequently away from home. By pre-programming settings, a smart thermostat can help you save nearly $200 off energy bills each year.
4. Seal heating and cooling ducts
Sealing and insulating ducts can improve heating and cooling efficiency by 20 percent. Start with ducts in your attic, crawlspaces, basement, and garage. After sealing these ducts, wrap them in insulation. Then look for other ducts you can seal and insulate. Learn more in this Duct Sealing Fact Sheet.
5. Add insulation
Adding insulation to your attic, crawl spaces, basement, and exterior walls is another great way to keep your house cool in the summer and warm in the winter. According to HomeAdvisor, insulation is one of the best long-term investments you can make in your house. Even with expensive materials and installation, you’ll recoup that money with lower utility bills over time.
6. Install more energy efficient windows, doors, and skylights
Energy Star® storm windows and doors save energy and improve the comfort of your home. About 20% of air leaks in the typical home come from windows and doors. Storm windows alone can reduce heat loss through windows by 25% to 50%.
7. Install an energy efficient hot water heater
Water heating is the third largest energy expense in your home, typically accounting for about 12% of your utility bill. An energy-efficient tank water heater or a tankless water heater can make a difference. Also consider using less hot water, turning down the water heater’s thermostat, or wrapping your water heater with insulation.
8. Upgrade household appliances
Research appliances and electronics with an Energy Star® rating or view ENERGY STAR® Most Efficient 2021 qualified products. Appliances account for 15% of household energy consumption, with refrigerators, clothes washers, and dryers at the top of the list.
9. Install more efficient lighting
Choose Energy Star® qualified light bulbs and lighting fixtures for your home. An average household dedicates 11% of its energy budget to lighting. Using new lighting technologies can reduce lighting energy use in your home by 50% to 75%.
Talk to Freedom Mortgage about a cash out refinance
You can get the cash you need to make upgrades by tapping into your home's equity. Speak to an experienced Loan Advisor about cash out refinancing for conventional, VA, or FHA loans. Call 877-425-1705 or by visiting our Get Started page.
