Quick Tips to Save on Energy Costs in Your Home

When it comes to energy usage in your home, using less translates into saving more money. This eco-friendly movement has lead to many different tips and tricks being born to help people save on their energy costs. There are many very simple thing that you can do to save quite a bit of cash over the course of a year. The majority of these can be done as inexpensive weekend projects and they will leave your wallet fuller and your home more efficient.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

This type of thermostat allows you to have full control over the temperature of your home. When you can keep it precisely on a certain number, you can manage you energy usage a lot easier. Thermostats like the Heatmiser, for example, are easy to use and they are easy to install too. The general rule of thumb is to keep your heat set at 68 degrees Fahrenheit and your air conditioning at 78 degrees Fahrenheit. If your home is well-insulated, these temperatures should be quite comfortable regardless of the outside temperature. Maintaining these temperatures can save you as much as 10 percent each year in energy costs.

Choose the Right Bulbs

There are many different types of lightbulbs out right now that can save on energy costs. Some examples include CFL bulbs, LED bulbs and energy-efficient halogen incandescents. These bulbs can save you as much as 80 percent, depending on the exact bulbs used and your habits when it comes to things like turning all lights off whenever they are not in use.

Check for Air Leaks

At least once a year you want to go around to all of your windows and doors and see if you can feel air coming in. This is easiest when it is cold outside because it is easier to feel the cold air when you are in a warm home. If you notice any air leaks, simply seal them off. Doors are usually the biggest culprit and you can find different accessories at the hardware store to seal drafty doors while still keeping them completely functional.

Energy Star Label

When you are getting new appliances, get those with the Energy Star seal. Most newer appliances will have this seal automatically. When using these types of appliances all throughout your home, you can lower your electricity bill by as much as 30 percent. Even if you only have a few appliances with this seal, you will be saving money.