2 Easy Ways to Reduce Your Homes’ Energy Use

As the cost of energy goes up, more people are trying to find ways to lower their energy bills. Most people take the logical approach of replacing their old windows and doors and getting more energy efficient units installed. Other people take the time to replace every light bulb in their house with the low-cost fluorescent bulbs.

The best way to combat your home’s energy bill is to take on large projects when you can and do smaller things as well. For example, even though that old stereo is not turned on, it is still drawing energy if it is plugged in. You need to go through your entire house and remove all of the electrical items that you never use and put them into a self-service storage spot. You lower your energy bill and free up more space in your home for furniture or other items.

When it comes to those larger projects, there are two that you should get to right away. Neither project is costly or difficult. But both can make a significant impact on how much you pay every month in energy costs.

1. Change Your Insulation

Any kind of attic and wall insulation breaks down over time and becomes less effective. If you have owned your home for years and have never checked on your insulation, then you may have insufficient insulation or possibly no insulation at all.

You need to hire a professional insulation contractor to evaluate your home’s insulation and give you an estimate on having the insulation replaced. Only a professional can give you a comprehensive and accurate evaluation of your insulation and only a professional can make certain that your new insulation will be installed properly and be able to do the job.

2. Install a Programmable Thermostat

If you are uncomfortable with the idea of installing a programmable thermostat on your own, then do not hesitate to have one installed by a professional. A programmable thermostat will allow you to choose what temperature you want your house to be during different times of the day.

You can set the furnace for lower temperatures when you are not home or asleep and for slightly higher temperatures when you are home. You can also program your central air unit to cool the house when you need it and conserve energy the other times.

Conserving energy is a way to help save the environment and lower your personal energy bill. The steps you take to make your home more energy efficient will pay for themselves in the savings you will see with your energy bills.