Reducing the amount of power required to keep a home comfortable translates directly into financial savings every month. Heating and cooling systems in the home use more energy than most other appliances.
This can become very costly during hot summers and exceptionally cold winters. Fortunately, there are five changes homeowners can make to a house that will save money in this area.
Programmable Thermostat
Installing a programmable thermostat is one of the easiest changes to make to a home. This type of thermostat makes it possible to program temperature changes for the heating and cooling system based on the time of day and the day of the week.Families can automatically turn the system off when no one is home or turn the heat down when it gets warm in the afternoon. A programmable thermostat will save a significant amount of money each year.
Seal Cracks
Many homes have small cracks in the walls and around window frames or doors. These cracks allow air to escape from the house so it costs more to heat and cool the home. It only takes a few minutes to go around the home with caulk, sealant, or another material and seal the cracks.This will make the home more comfortable while lowering energy bills.
New Window Treatments
The sun shining through windows in the summer can increase the temperature in a room by a noticeable amount. This forces the air conditioner to work hard to keep the house cool. One way to combat this is to use window treatments to block the sun.The latest styles in window coverings are attractive and help to keep the home cool during the summer while the sun is shining. They can even help at night in winter to block cold drafts.
Ceiling Fans
Installing ceiling fans in the most used rooms of the house is a change that will save money. The fans help to move the air through the different rooms of the home during each season. Moving air lowers the perceived temperature of the air in the house during the summer.The fans also help to distribute heat in the winter. They use less electricity than heaters and air conditioners and save the family money.
Plant Shrubs and Trees
Strategically planting shrubs and trees outside of the home can lower energy bills each season. Shrubs and bushes help to block or filter the sunlight so it does not heat the home in the summer. They also block cold winds so that there is less of a problem with drafts in the winter. This lowers heating and cooling costs.Reducing energy consumption in the home can lead to significant financial savings, particularly by addressing heating and cooling systems, which are the primary energy consumers. Implementing five key changes can help homeowners lower their energy bills while maintaining comfort throughout the year.
Firstly, installing a programmable thermostat is an effective and straightforward way to manage heating and cooling costs. These thermostats allow homeowners to set specific temperatures for different times of the day and days of the week. This means the system can be turned down or off when the house is empty or when outdoor temperatures naturally moderate indoor conditions, leading to substantial annual savings.
Secondly, sealing cracks around windows, doors, and walls can prevent air leaks that make heating and cooling systems work harder. Using caulk or sealant to close these gaps is a quick and inexpensive way to enhance home insulation, keeping indoor temperatures stable and reducing energy bills.
Thirdly, updating window treatments can help control the amount of heat entering or leaving the home. During summer, heavy or reflective window coverings can block sunlight, keeping interiors cooler and reducing the strain on air conditioning systems. In winter, these treatments can help retain warmth by preventing drafts, thus lowering heating costs.
Fourthly, installing ceiling fans in frequently used rooms can improve air circulation, making the home feel cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Ceiling fans consume far less energy than air conditioning or heating systems, providing a cost-effective way to enhance comfort and save money.
Lastly, planting shrubs and trees strategically around the home can offer natural insulation. In summer, they provide shade that reduces heat gain, while in winter, they act as windbreaks, minimizing cold drafts. This natural barrier can lead to noticeable reductions in energy consumption for heating and cooling.
By making these five changes—installing a programmable thermostat, sealing cracks, updating window treatments, using ceiling fans, and planting shrubs and trees—homeowners can significantly reduce their energy usage and enjoy lower utility bills. These improvements not only enhance comfort but also contribute to a more energy-efficient and cost-effective home.
