5 Easy Ways to Lower Energy Costs
Lower Energy Costs with These Simple Tips
Homeowners are always looking for ways to lower their energy costs, and we can’t really blame them for wanting to do so. There are so many ways to go about conserving energy – both large and small – and we’re here to help you with some ideas. It’s important to remember that even small changes can go a long way, so if you’re on a budget, don’t worry. Not every change requires a green gadget or a pocket full of cash. Simply altering a routine can have a serious impact on your annual energy costs.
We know that this can be a daunting process, because the opportunities are endless! This is why we’ve compiled five simple ways to lower energy costs.
Keep Vents Clean & Open
Have you heard the popular myth that keeping vents closed can conserve energy? It seems like it would make sense, right? If you’re not using a room, then why “waste” energy by having your HVAC system  keep it cool or warm? The truth is, keeping vents closed will actually raise your energy costs.
When you close off air vents, it forces your HVAC system to work harder to keep balance, which in turn increases your utility bill. Furthermore, this can even lead to premature system failure. If you don’t regularly check your air vents, now is the time to inspect each one to ensure it’s clean and open.
Change Your HVAC Air Filters Regularly
Your HVAC system relies on an air filter to stop dirt, dust, and other debris from entering your home. A clogged air filter will block air flow, which decreases the efficiency of your system, forcing it to work harder to keep up with your demands. According to the Department of Energy, regularly changing your air filter can help lower your heating and cooling costs by 5 to 15 percent.
Replace Incandescent Light Bulbs
There are numerous energy-efficient alternatives to incandescent light bulbs. Here are the top three choices:
- Halogen Incandescent
- Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs)
- Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs)
While the price of these bulbs are higher than incandescent bulbs, rest assured the benefits outweigh it. According to Energy.gov, these energy-efficient light bulbs use 25 to 80 percent less energy than their counterpart, and last 3 to 25 times longer. Check out this informative chart from them that compares energy-efficient bulbs with traditional incandescent bulbs.
Schedule an Energy Audit
The purpose of an energy audit is to help you understand your home’s energy usage as well as to identify areas for improvement. During the audit, a technician will go room-to-room, inspecting all the nooks and crannies to ensure your home is as energy-efficient as possible. Several of the things they’ll look for:
- Air Leaks
- Poor Insulation
- Inefficient Appliances & Electronics
- Inefficient Lighting
Use Energy-Efficient Appliances & Electronics
If you’re in the market for new appliances or electronics, make sure to purchase ones that are going to be the most efficient. We highly recommend Energy Star appliances as they use 10 to 50 percent less energy than their traditional counterparts, which can significantly lower energy costs. They’ll cost more upfront, but the savings you’ll receive will help offset the installation.
Hickerson Electrical is your source for all home electrical services. We’re ready and willing to deliver top-quality service to your home at a moment’s notice. So call today at (703) 594-3913.
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