Energy use is on the rise and has doubled in the last 20 years. As a parent who has to deal with electronics charging around the home, the TV being on, and running the washing machine frequently throughout the week, you know more than most how energy use can take a toll on your monthly budget. Fortunately, there are a few key ways you can keep your energy costs down this fall.
1. Fix Any Drafty Windows
You can see a significant increase in energy bills if just one of your windows has a draft. The Department of Energy says you can lose 25% to 35% of your warm air from such a draft. With winter right around the corner, you need to investigate now rather than later, or else you could see your gas bill skyrocket.
2. Take Care of Heating Problems
Heating problems can hike up your bills because your heating system is running harder to heat your home. Fixing those issues can reduce your monthly expenses almost instantly. A heater can have various symptoms that require repair or replacement. Strange smells are one symptom, and it usually indicates something is burning. Rapid cycling indicates a problem with the compressor. Inadequate heating might mean you have something blocking the airflow.
The age of your heating system can also make a huge difference. Consider replacing your system if it’s over seven years old because it might be on its way out.
3. Clean or Change HVAC Filters
If your HVAC filters are clogged, they can lead to inadequate airflow, which causes your home’s heating and cooling system to work twice as hard to deliver warm or cool air to your home. A contractor can visit and change out your filter if it’s the only problem. You’ll quickly discover that you can reduce your energy consumption between 5% and 15%.
4. Reduce Lawn Watering Frequency
More than 90% of Americans prefer to live on properties with grass lawns, but watering your grass too frequently can hike up your water and energy bills if you’re not careful. You can cut down on these expenses by developing a strategy that reduces the time you have to run your sprinkler. You can also invest in a sprinkler designed to use fewer resources. Speak to a sales rep at your local hardware store who can help you make positive decisions and invest in state-of-the-art technology.
5. Get Your Insulation Inspected
Have someone inspect your home for insulation problems. A lot of good air gets lost within the cracks of faulty insulation. Fortunately, you can schedule an appointment with an expert who can come to your home and check all your insulation in every room, especially your attic.
6. Turn Things Off
One of the greatest tips we can offer is to turn things off when you’re not going to use them. Many people leave electronics and appliances on or plugged up when they don’t need to be. These behaviors end up stripping those households of electricity.
Colder weather is right around the corner, which means now’s the time to nip your energy costs in the bud before winter arrives. Try our tips above to reduce your energy bills today.
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