05 Jan Home Tip Of The Week: Make Your Home More Energy Efficient
Do you have a new year’s resolution for your home? Here are a few we’ve put together to become more energy efficient in 2016.
- Buy energy-smart lightbulbs. CFLs can last 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs and use 75% less energy.
- Install a programmable thermostat. These devices pay for themselves after a few months with savings on your electricity bill.
- Seal doors and windows. Get rid of pesky drafts.
- Update your insulation. Keep cool in summer and trap your heat in the winter.
- Install low-flow toilets and shower heads. Save thousands of gallons of water per year.
- Replace old appliances. Older appliances are less energy-efficient than newer models. Purchase Energy Star certified appliances.
- Plant shade trees near the house. Place on the west and southwest sides to keep your home cooler.
- Clean air ducts. Improve air flow and put less stress on your furnace
- Replace furnace air filters often. Dirty filters make your furnace work harder.
- Revamp your windows. Replace aluminum frames with vinyl and add multiple panes.
- Finally, make sure to take advantage of the tax incentives for energy-efficient home improvements available through the federal government.
