Summer is a hard time to really get a handle on how much energy we use when we are having air conditioners, fans and such running constantly. We can be smart about how we use certain things in our home and maybe we can get our electric bills lowered and we can conserve natural resources at the same time.
Keeping cool in the summer is primarily tied to your HVAC system and its ability to perform efficiently. By having regular maintenance on your system you can avoid any failures while it is running so much during the summer. Something as simple as a check of the air filter can make sure that it is free of debris and can even be done yourself. A clogged filter will mean that the unit will have to work harder to cool the air. Leave anything you don't feel comfortable doing yourself to a professional tech. Where you keep your thermostat will determine how hard your system has to work. It is ideal to keep it at a steady temperature and as high as you can comfortably tolerate.
Having old appliances is just asking for an increase in your energy consumption. These old units are not designed to be the best when it comes to saving energy. If you have the means to overhaul all of the appliances that do not have an good Energy Star rating then go for it. If not, saving up and replacing them as you can is your best bet. A lot of the newer appliances also gives you the option to run them in an “eco” mode. Using this option will use the least amount of resources but you may sometimes sacrifice convenience.
Light bulbs are an easy way to swap out something older for a newer, more efficient model. LED bulbs are many times over a better choice to light your home. They come in many different types so just pick the right one for your needs and you will be all set.
When it comes to water usage and being a good steward of its consumption, changing out fixtures that leak or are older and less efficient is best. Low flow toilets, faucets and showerheads will help drive down your water bills and save you money. If you are thinking that these types of fixtures will reduce your flow so much that all you will get is a trickle then think again. The technology has come a long way so that you can have an enjoyable experience and still have a low consumption imprint.
How you use energy has an impact on the amount you use. Smaller systems use less energy. When you are consuming media make sure that you try to utilize perhaps an iPad as opposed to your whole entertainment unit. Choosing to stream with a Google Chromecast, Roku or Apple TV tends to be more efficient than using a bulky gaming system instead. The same goes for using a laptop as opposed to a desktop computer system. Laptops in general tend to use less energy so be thoughtful when choosing how and when to use the internet on the devices you may have.
If you are just hemorrhaging energy and you can’t outwardly see what is the issue then it might be time to call in a professional. A professional energy audit will be your best bet to really find where your issues lie. They can evaluate any air leakage you may be experiencing from windows and other spaces along with any other feature that may be contributing. They will also discuss any habits that you may have that could be adding to your usage. This service can be on the pricier side so if you can do the little things discussed previously you may be able to get your energy usage managed without having to call in the big guns.
Placing and installing solar panels on your roof is becoming more and more popular these days. Being able to generate your own energy is a nice idea and can be done with this type of technology. Solar panels have come down in cost but are still an expensive endeavor. It may take some years to fully get the benefit of them but if you are in it for the long haul then it is an option for you.
Properties in general are an expensive prospect when you add up all the bills, mortgage and other incidentals that may arise. So if you can save money it is always a good thing. This will help you have a more enjoyable experience in your home for many years to come.
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