Energy efficiency and sustainability are becoming a more important topics in California homes. For this reason I decided to do a blog series on Sustainable Living in Orange County. Today’s post: How to save more energy at home?
According to EIA.gov consumers spent 2.7% of their household income on home energy bills in 2012, the lowest percentage in 10 years. Still, there is a lot of room for improvement when it comes to energy efficiency in our homes. Measures both big (installing solar panels) and small (turning off the lights), can really help your wallet. And did you know that energy proofing your home might increase its resale value?
Is your home is cold and drafty or uncomfortably hot? Is your energy bill draining your wallet? It might be time to take steps. In this first post of my Sustainable Living series I will give you a few ideas for making your home more energy efficient.
1. Insulate your home
Let’s start with a bigger but very efficient measure. The large majority of energy is lost through walls, roof and windows. Thinking of remodeling? That is the perfect time to add new or additional insulation to your ceilings, attic and walls. You can keep warm air inside during the winter and prevent cold drafts. During the warm summer, these improvements can really help to keep your home cool.
2. Close the blinds
Did you know that you can reduce energy loss through the windows by up to 50% if you simply close the blinds? In the summer, when the hot Californian sun is blazing on your windows, it might be a good idea to close the blinds in rooms in which you are not very active during the day (such as your bedroom). By keeping the blinds closed, you can prevent sunlight from heating up the rooms, keeping you cool!
There are a lot of beautiful, decorative window covering options out there that will help increase your comfort and enhance your interior. Consider for example the highly efficient, award-winning Duette Architella Blinds from Hunter Douglas.
3. Upgrade the windows
In my experience many homes in the area have old, single paned windows. If your windows are old and leaky, it may be time to replace them with more energy-efficient models. You can effectively reduce your energy bill by up to 24% according to EnergyStar.gov. Moreover, you can increase your living comfort significantly by keeping more heat out during the summer, and reducing cold drafts during the winter.
4. Plant trees
If your home faces west, your house might get uncomfortably warm during the summer. Planting trees can be an effective way to shade your house from the strongest rays of the sun. Planting low water, native plants can also cut your water bill, lowering the total cost you pay for your home each month.
5. Seal the doors and windows
Install door sweeps at the bottom of your front and back doors to keep heat from escaping. Remove old window caulk and apply a fresh seal or weather stripping to ensure that your doors and windows are properly sealed.
6. Upgrade your thermostat.
A programmable thermostat can save you over $150 a year on your energy bill. According to EIA.gov only 40% of CA households has a programmable thermostat. For US homes with air conditioning, 60% have a central thermostat and about half of those are programmable. A smart thermostat can heat and cool your home when you want it to so you don’t have to waste energy. Also, raising the temperature in your house by just one degree, can save you between 7% to 10% on cooling costs! For more guidelines on how to correctly use your thermostat: Click Here.
Did you know that for example the NEST thermostat is considered a noteworthy feature when you are ready to sell your house.
7. Replace the light bulbs
Here is another easy measure that can help you save money. Replace incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) or LED lights. CFLs can last 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs and use 75% less energy. LED bulbs are mercury-free and may last up to 5 times as long as CFLs. These bulbs might cost more initially, but will be worth it in the end!
8. Replace old appliances.
Appliances have gotten a lot more energy efficient over the years and replacing older appliances will go a long way towards savings on your electricity bill. Did you know that in California appliances and lighting account for 44% of total energy consumption? When it is time to replace kitchen appliances, the washer, dryer, water heater, furnace or air conditioner, look for the Energy Star label to ensure you are getting the most energy efficient option.
9. Choose a lighter roof color.
When you are ready to replace the roof, consider a lighter color. A light-colored roof can decrease the amount of heat transferred to the attic. You can also consider special “cool” shingles.
10. Change your air filter
It is advisable to check your filter at least once a month, especially during months of heavy use. I know that this is one of those things that everyone forgets about (myself included I must admit). Does your filter look dirty? It might be time to replace it. A dirty filter slows down the airflow, forcing your system to work harder to regulate the temperature in your house. Clean filters can also prevent dust from building up in your system – which can lead to expensive maintenance. EnergyStar.gov recommends you change the filter every three months.
About Jaleesa Peluso
Jaleesa Peluso is a Laguna Beach Realtor®. As a Laguna Beach Realtor she specializes in coastal homes and luxury home marketing. For more information about Orange County Real Estate or Laguna Beach Real Estate, visit: www.jaleesapeluso.com
Contact: (949) 395-0960 or Jaleesa@JaleesaPeluso.com