Conserving Energy in Your Home

You might assume that making your home energy-efficient requires a lot of time and money, but generally that’s not the case. Often small fixes can have a big impact on your heating, cooling, and other utility bills. Here are some easy ways to make your home more efficient right now:

Don’t Turn That Dial – You’d be surprised how much money you can save by setting your thermostat at a constant temperature. In the winter time, 68 degrees usually provides adequate warmth, and -- if you have central air conditioning -- setting your dial at 75 degrees will provide cool, dry and comfortable environment. Avoiding constant adjustments will keep your energy bills stable.
Stop the Drips - Leaky showerheads and faucets are hard-to-miss energy wasters. Toilets that run can also cost you on your water bill. And, if your water utilities are included in condo fees, remember that the wear and tear on the finish of the sinks, baths and shower stalls can cost you money! The majority of this type of repairs are covered in the most basic do-it-yourself handbook, or inexpensively fixed by a handyman.
Go Fluorescent - While compact fluorescent light bulbs cost a little more than the standard incandescent bulbs that you’re used to, they last up to five times longer and use only a quarter of the electricity. Many of these bulbs last over five years, and each energy-saving fluorescent bulb will save you $40 to $60 on your electric bill over the course of its lifetime.
Watch Your Fireplace – Money, in the form of a gas, oil or electric fuel, can literally leak out of that fireplace! Check the dampers and screens to make sure that the warmth that could be used to heat your home isn’t escaping to the outside. If the fireplace is just for decoration, cover the chimney. A well-maintained fireplace can be an economical way to heat your house, plus the cozy atmosphere. If you are a first-time fireplace user, read up on how the process works in order to eliminate smoky rooms, ash build-up and costly heat loss.
Keep Appliances Humming - Clean air conditioning and furnace filters frequently, and have your appliances inspected once a year. Efficient appliances lower energy bills and future repair costs. Clean your dryer air vent and lint trap at least four times a year with brushes that are designed to remove lint from small crevices. Clean the coils on your refrigerator, which are usually located on the back and/or bottom of the appliance. To avoid fire, dust your television and electronic systems often. Water heater should be drained twice a year to avoid sediment build-up.
Windows that Waste - Windows are the most common energy waster. Make sure that all the weather stripping is in good condition, and consider double-paned windows and storm shutters to reduce the energy drain. Quick fixes are caulk, glazing compound and plastic window covers.

Hopefully these ideas help you create a more energy efficient home. Energy efficiency is not only an important part of conservation; it’s also a great way to save money. More homeowner tips are available on my website.

If you have questions about moving, building, selecting your first home or moving up to your next home, contact DAVID BRENTON’S TEAM.

When you are serious about moving… put our TEAM to work for you!