When you’re investing in a new home, it’s essential to consider energy efficiency. It doesn’t matter if you plan to stay in the house for a few years or forever; you’ll want to make sure that your electricity bill is predictable and affordable. Installing new windows, doors, insulation, and appliances will drastically lower your bills and increase your comfort level. The following simple changes can save energy and save you money.
Make the Most of the Natural Shade and Sun
Don’t be fooled by the sunny and clear days; you’ll still want to make sure your windows are properly sealed. The cheap plastic window sealers you can find at your local big-box home improvement store can save some money, but they won’t last as long or save the same amount of energy as a better, more durable, more energy-efficient seal. Opt for window insulation treatment instead. A great thing about this type of treatment is that it’s very versatile; you can use any sealant that meets the UL standards.
Aluminum blinds are the longest-serving and cheap to maintain for window treatment, will give you a reason to smile, and are available for windows of all sizes. Slap on some sealant, then top it off with a sealant like polyurethane. To keep yourself off the sun, consider a single-ply roofing material, as 88% of respondents said the company they bought from sold it!
Don’t Forget To Unplug
According to the United States Department of Energy, residential electricity consumption in the U.S. is the most significant contributor to carbon dioxide emissions, making it essential to consider how to improve your home to reduce the amount of energy it uses. Unplug all of your electronics at night and during the day. If you have a phone charger plugged into an outlet, be sure to unplug the charger. Even a full charge can consume as much electricity as a TV or desktop monitor.
Look For Oven Alternatives
Ovens are often the culprit for electricity bill increases, but there are alternatives. Most ovens these days come equipped with digital controls, so you don’t have to lift a finger to control how your food cooks. An oven with digital controls can run up to 50% less than an oven with analog control. The fewer times you have to open your oven door to adjust the temperature, the less electricity you’ll use. For heating, consider using natural gas. It is the second-most consumed energy source in the United States.
Ensure Proper Insulation
Supposing you live in a cold climate or your heater is in the basement, proper insulation is essential. Keeping your attic and basement insulated with spray foam will help keep your costs down. You’ll also have an advantage over your neighbors if you decide to remodel your attic.
Adjust Your TV Settings
It’s possible to change most TVs to adjust the temperature of the picture. Most manufacturers offer a user-friendly menu to adjust the temperature, and a quick Internet search should pull up your TV’s operating manual for additional help. You can save money while enhancing your viewing experience.
Low-Affected Laundry
A great way to lower the energy bill in your home is to convert your washer and dryer to low-affected. Low-affected machines use less water and detergent and do not use heat or other energy to take clothing from the washing machine to the dryer. Ensure your dryer vent points are not leaking, either.
Every new home has plenty of room for improvement. If you’re ready to move in, then focus on efficient energy usage and remember that the cost of utilities is a huge chunk of the home’s price tag. Many new homebuyers feel that new home costs far exceed their budget. However, an energy-efficient home is a wise investment for new homeowners and can save them a bundle on their electric bills.