Everyone loves saving money, and with the average monthly utility bill hovering around $600, reducing energy consumption at home is a great starting point. Fortunately, homeowners in Ocean Isle have several options to lower their energy bills without investing in costly upgrades to appliances or HVAC systems. Better yet, these upgrades may be more affordable than you think.
Take a moment to learn how to improve your home's energy efficiency, saving you money on your bills and helping the planet.
Energy Efficiency Tips to Save Money
New technologies and energy-efficient habits can simplify reducing energy consumption at home. With minor adjustments, the average household can significantly lower its energy usage. Consider these ways to enhance energy efficiency that require no financial investment.
1. Adjust your thermostat.
Home heating and cooling systems account for over 40% of the average utility bill, so adjusting how we use them to reduce energy waste is essential. By adjusting your thermostat by 7 to 10 degrees at night, you can save 10% or more on your annual heating and cooling costs!
2. Unplug unused electronics.
Even when turned off, plugged-in electronics draw a small amount of electricity. Sometimes referred to as “phantom load” or “vampire power,” unused electronics add up; the average US household spendsabout $165 annually powering devices that aren’t in use.
3. Turn down your water heater.
Most residential water heaters are set to 140 degrees F by default, and most homeowners never adjust them. Simply lowering your water heater temperature to 120 degrees will reduce the risk of scalding and save you between 4% and 22% on your energy bills—up to $400 a year!
4. Use natural HVAC methods.
Use proven natural techniques to boost your home's energy efficiency. By strategically opening and closing your curtains and windows, you can naturally regulate your home's temperature and lessen your reliance on your HVAC system.
In winter, open your curtains during sunny days to allow the sun's warmth to heat your home.
In summer, close your curtains to block the sun's rays and keep your home cool.
You can also open your windows when it's cool outside to let in fresh air and close them when it's hot to keep the heat out.
5. Turn off the lights.
It’s that simple! Turn off lights whenever you leave a room, and try to use natural light from outside as much as possible. Over time, even this simple act will profoundly impact your household’s energy bills.
More Ways to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient
When upgrading your home’s HVAC equipment or major appliances, opt for ENERGY STAR-approved products. This stringent rating system identifies products that meet stringent efficiency standards.
Beyond replacement units, swapping older technologies for new ones is sometimes possible. For example, heat pumps can be up to three times more efficient than traditional gas furnaces.
Even if your furnace works well, it’s worth talking to your A+ Heating & Cooling technician now. They’ll help you determine the best time to replace it to avoid service interruption and save money on your upgrade.
Read more: Smart Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality on a Budget
How Much Energy Does the Average Home Use?
The US household uses approximately 10,800 kilowatt-hours (kWh) each year, or about 899 kWh per month. Energy usage can vary significantly among homes and geographic regions. Larger houses typically consume more energy than smaller ones, contributing to the general increase in energy consumption in the US over time.
Several factors influence home energy use, including the age of the home, the types of appliances used, local climate conditions, and the number of household occupants.
Expert Indoor Air Quality Services in Ocean Isle
A+ Heating & Cooling—Electrical is your partner for home electrical, HVAC, and indoor air quality services in the Ocean Isle and Southport areas. Our experienced professionals can help you explore ways to improve home energy efficiency and find the most cost-effective ways to lower your energy bill!
Contact us online or call 910-600-6025 to schedule an appointment!