15 Ways To Make Your Home Energy-Efficient

Energy-efficient homes are the need of the hour. They not only help control the sharp hike in energy costs but also contribute to a better planet free of pollution and harmful emission of gases into the atmosphere.  Making some simple, smart changes at home can make a massive difference to your energy bill.

Insulation - Ensure that your walls, attics, basement and flooring are well-insulated. This helps reduce the amount of heating or air conditioning needed to keep your home comfortable.

Windows – As time passes, windows might warp or bend, resulting in leaks around the edges. Leaky windows can cause a significant loss of heat. Replacing or upgrading troublesome windows with Energy Star rated window models can minimize such losses.  You could save up to 24% on energy bills from this alone.

Shady Trees – Grow trees and shrubs around your home, especially on the western side. This will block heat radiation and bring down indoors temperature in summer.  In winter, the bare trees will let in whatever little sunlight there is, thereby heating up the home. This works nicely for old homes with no insulation. Well-insulated modern homes are naturally energy-efficient.

Replace Old Furnaces – Faulty furnaces that are more than 20 years old should be replaced with newer energy-efficient models.  By consuming less fuel to generate the same amount of heat, these improved appliances will save you a remarkable amount on energy expenses.

Improve Hot Water Systems - Insulating your hot water pipes can conserve heat. Use low-flow hot water fittings in your shower and bathroom.  Turn down hot water temperature to 120 degree Fahrenheit to avoid wasteful energy consumption.

Replace Bulbs With CFL – Change all incandescent lightbulbs with CFL bulbs that consume a quarter of the energy and save money on energy bills. The bulbs cost more, but have a longer life-span.

Unplug Unused Appliances – Switching off all unused appliances instead of leaving them on standby can save electricity.  Instead of putting your computer system on sleep mode, turn it off if you are not likely to return to work for an hour or longer.

Improve Energy Efficiency Using Tax Incentives – Federal and state governments offer tax incentives when you upgrade to more energy efficient equipment for heating and cooling or install renewable energy systems.  Take advantage of these benefits and save money.

Energy Audit – A professional audit of your home will reveal any areas where energy is wasted. Cost-effective measures suggested by energy auditors can help you save money on energy bills.

Replace Old Refrigerators – Old refrigerators and freezers are energy guzzlers. Replace them with more energy-efficient models

Programmable Thermostats – Install thermostats that can be pre-programmed.  They are available for $150 at most hardware stores. Set your thermostat to turn-off heating and switch off hot water systems when you are away on vacation. When you are at home, adjust temperature settings to your convenience depending on the time of the day.

Use Solar Shades – Use solar films or solar shades to keep out the sun's radiation during the hottest part of the day.  This is particularly useful on hot summer days.

Clean Air Filters - Filters inside air conditioners get clogged due to dirt and grime.  This restricts air flow, forcing the air conditioner to work harder to keep room cool. Cleaning out your filters regularly can cool your home more efficiently.

Attic Fan – An attic fan keeps the air circulating and prevents attics from becoming too hot. This saves you money on air conditioning costs.  Since your air conditioner does not need to work as hard, you'll reduce your energy consumption by installing attic fans.

Energy saved is energy not used. By using better and more efficient equipment and appliances, you will be able to easily bring down energy costs and reduce your dependence on conventional energy sources for running the household.  For more information, visit http://www.uswitch.com/.