Benefits of Energy-Efficient Windows

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Photo: Shutterstock

Energy-efficient windows will save you money both now and in the future. And because of the distinct coating on the glass and advanced technology, there are numerous advantages to having power windows.

Many homeowners are becoming increasingly conscious of the environmental and economic consequences of their energy consumption. Did you know that residential buildings consume 20% of all energy? If you are looking for energy-saving tips, you should know that windows can have a significant impact on the operational efficiency of your home. Power windows are built with energy-saving features in mind. If your windows are increasing your electric bills, you should consider replacing them to save money on your energy bill.

Increase Energy Savings

Energy-efficient windows are exactly what their name suggests. They have the potential to significantly decrease your energy consumption. These windows have insulation properties, which means they can keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. You will not need to rely on your air conditioning system as much. Lowering your energy usage means using less fuel, making your home more environmentally friendly.

UV Protection For Your Home

Regular windows allow more natural light into your home. This, but even so, does not protect you from the dangers of UV rays. UV rays are also known to cause destruction to furniture, clothing, and wood. They can also exacerbate the issues of those who are sensitive to light. Many power windows, on the other hand, are made with a special coating that lessens or completely blocks UV rays. This implies that there will be no vanishing or deterioration in your home.

Condensation Is Reduced

Condensation can be a major issue, particularly in high-moisture areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Before something condenses on cold windows, moisture will vaporize in the air. This results in pools of water and water streaks. Furthermore, excessive water presence can result in mildew formation.

Power windows can dramatically reduce condensation in your home. In addition to the surface temperature, the insulation can help keep the temperature changes in the rooms at a comfortable level. While it is impossible to eliminate all humidity, it is always recommended to use conditioners or fans to control humidity levels.

Noise Reduction

If you live in a crowded city, you are possibly used to hearing continual traffic and noise on a daily basis. If you want to feel at ease in your own home, you should consider setting up energy-efficient windows. Numerous individuals are unaware that they can be soundproofed.

Reduced Upkeep

If you ever plan to sell your home, this is a huge selling point. Many people would prefer to live in a home that requires little upkeep. It is not necessary to deal with housekeeping on a regular basis. Furthermore, because of energy transfer, there will be fewer reactions on energy-efficient windows, without the worry of mildew accumulation.

Sales Tax Exempted Energy-Saver Products in Texas

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Energy costs are predicted to reach record highs this summer. The Texas electricity grid continues to come under investigation and has trouble keeping up with demand. Additionally, the Lone Star State has lost more than 60% of its bottomland hardwood woods, much of it to reservoirs for urban water supplies, while Texans continue to irrigate their lawns liberally.

All of this makes now the ideal moment to start taking energy and water conservation at home and the office seriously. In Texas, a small number of products that save energy and water are exempt from sales tax during the sales tax holiday.

According to Texas State Comptroller Glenn Hegar, “triple-digit heat, out-of-date water systems, and inefficient appliances can place a burden on our water supply and electrical infrastructures.” Texas residents can make improvements that will help relieve those stresses and cut their electricity bills while saving money on state and local sales taxes by taking advantage of these tax breaks.

PRODUCTS THAT SAVE ENERGY

However, the possibilities for energy conservation that qualify for the sales-tax exemption are severely constrained. The emphasis is on ENERGY STAR-rated appliances, although there is only a small list included: dehumidifiers, washing machines, dishwashers, and refrigerators that cost $2,000 or less (including mini-fridges). The list included ENERGY STAR-certified light bulbs, light fixtures, and decorative light strings in addition to incandescent and fluorescent lights. The exclusions are true whether you purchase, rent, or lease things.

Even though they are ENERGY STAR-certified, the following appliances are not eligible: water heaters, clothes dryers, stoves, ovens, attic fans, heat pumps, freezers, and any kind of refrigerator, including specialty refrigerators like kegerators and wine and beverage chillers. Several are significant energy consumers, so it is a little perplexing.

The largest energy consumers in the home, according to Direct Energy, are appliances (13 percent), lighting (9 percent), television and media devices (46 percent), air conditioning and heating (46 percent), and water heating (14 percent) (4 percent). According to Connect4Climate, water heaters account for 14% of appliance energy use, while refrigerators account for 4%.

The absence of sales tax deductions for solar energy goods is even more perplexing. However, as seen in this list supplied by DSIRE, the database of the North Carolina Clean Energy Technology Center at North Carolina State University, certain electricity companies, and municipalities do offer incentives for renewable energy.

A sales tax exemption for energy-efficient windows, including those with the ENERGY STAR label, is another flaw. Heat gain and loss through windows and skylights account for up to 30% of the energy used for heating and cooling homes.

HYDRAULIC PRODUCTS

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the Dallas-Fort Worth area has had some of the nation’s biggest population gains. Bureau of Census. Water conservation is therefore essential. Citizens must take the initiative because local governments and water utilities don’t provide many incentives for saving money.

On Memorial Day weekend, any item bearing a Water Sense label or badge, such as bathroom and kitchen fixtures and products that save water, were eligible for tax-free shopping.

The use of outdoor water presents significant water-saving options. In hot climates like North Texas, up to 60% of home water is used for outside purposes like watering gardens and lawns, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Water is wasted up to 50% using careless and ineffective watering techniques.

Many outdoor water-saving products, such as those used to conserve or retain groundwater, replenish water tables, or lower ambient air temperature to reduce water evaporation, are accepted for tax-free status but are not required to have the Water Sense label.

Mulch and other permeable ground covers, such as those that allow water to reach aquifers, subsurface basins, or water collection stations, are examples. Hoses for soaker or drip irrigation, moisture regulators for sprinkler or irrigation systems, rain buckets, and other rain and moisture-gathering systems are also acceptable.

Use mulches that enable rainfall to penetrate, such as cedar, hardwood, straw, or pine straw, to help the soil retain water. Mulches also aid in preventing weed growth. Other water-absorbing additives, like lava sand and expanded shale, do not qualify since they do not assist soil to retain water the way compost does.

Tax exemptions apply to trees, woody plants, shrubs, and perennials (but not annuals). The same goes for grasses, even some infamous water hogs like St. Augustine. For real water savings, choose locally suited plants that can withstand heat and drought.

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Dallas-Fort Worth: 5 Energy Efficiency Tips

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Energy saving is a constant worry in Dallas-Fort Worth. There are various solutions accessible, whether the goal is to live more sustainably through energy efficiency, water conservation, or simply by choosing to do so.
Constant energy conservation is required. Whether one is interested in energy efficiency or simply wants to live more sustainably, there are numerous options available. Here are five methods that each household can utilize to reduce their energy use.

1. Start With Small Tasks

Photo: Your Teen Magazine

It’s not necessary to spend a lot of money or time on energy conservation. Energy savings can be achieved by making numerous little modifications.

  • Compact fluorescent light bulbs should replace all of your incandescent bulbs (CFLs). These bulbs have an increased energy efficiency of up to 70 percent and have a long lifespan.
  • When leaving a room, turn off the lights and devices.
  • A filthy filter makes your air conditioner work harder, so replace it on a regular basis. To help you remember to update it routinely, set a calendar reminder on your smartphone.
  • While you are brushing your teeth, turn off the faucet. Try to take a shower for no more than 10 minutes to conserve water and power, and open a window for fresh air.
  • Advanced Power Strips (APS) should be utilized for your entertainment center, home PCs, and other electrical gadgets in place of older, more conventional power strips. By doing this, you can help reduce the continuous energy consumption of inactive electronics without having to change your daily routine.

2. Replace Old Appliances With Energy-Efficient Ones

Photo: American Home Shield

Long-term energy savings from home electronics upgrades can be significant. Here are some suggestions about how to cut costs.

  • If your refrigerator is more than five years old and not Energy Star certified, you should replace it. According to Energystar.gov, there are 60 million refrigerators that are thought to be in use today that are more than ten years old and cost American households $4.4 billion annually to operate.
  • Try to keep your refrigerator away from other heat sources like your stove, microwave, dishwasher, and other appliances, and keep the windows open to let the heat out of the space.
  • It is time to upgrade if your dishwasher was made before 1994. Each cycle, these older models waste 10 gallons of water.
  • Prior to 1998, washers and dryers also needed to be replaced. Modern designs utilize 65 percent less water.

3. Modernize Kitchen and Bathrooms

Photo: Sidekix Media on Unsplash

Check for the new Water Sense label when thinking about upgrading your kitchen and bathroom faucets. Think about updating these spaces throughout your entire house.

  • Toilets built prior to 1992 ought to be replaced with low-flow models. A family of four will save more than 11,000 gallons of water annually thanks to these water-saving toilets.
  • Install showerheads and faucet aerators that use less water. The current requirement for faucet flow is 1.5 gallons per minute. According to the EPA, installing a Water Sense showerhead in a home could result in annual water savings of up to 2,900 gallons.
  • Fix any leaks right now. Up to 200 gallons of water a day are wasted by a leaking toilet. An annual 3,000-gallon leak from a faucet is possible.

4. Savings Outside

Photo: Paul Moody on Unsplash

Additionally, the yard of your house might help you save energy. Utilize these techniques to save and cut back.

  • Any other time than the coolest part of the day, predawn, should be avoided while utilizing your sprinkler. Avoid using non-native plants or excessive watering of your plants.
  • To encourage a strong root system and a healthy lawn, check the height of the blade on your lawnmower.
  • You can create a compost pile for your garden as an alternative to using waste disposal. It promotes both the plants in your yard and the energy efficiency of your home.
  • Refrain from over-fertilizing your lawn because this will make it need more water.

5. Renewable Power

Photo: Bill Mead on Unsplash

Install solar panels to make the most of the glorious 60 percent of sunshine that Dallas-Fort Worth receives each year. Find out what incentives are offered by your utility provider by checking with them. Oncor gives homeowners information about its programs. You could even be able to sell the utility any extra energy you have.

Ideas for Saving Energy Consumption

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Heat-Related Energy-Saving Advice

Photo: Mike Cox on Unsplash

  • Set your thermostat to 78°F or higher because every additional degree of cooling will result in a six to eight percent increase in energy use.
  • To move the cool air, use portable fans and ceiling fans.
  • To protect your home from the sun, install solar window screens, awnings, and patio covers. To reduce the heat during the summer, cover the windows on the south and west sides with plants or trees.
  • In warm weather, draw inside blinds, drapes, or shades to block the light and heat.
  • Use a clothesline rather than a dryer.
  • Condensers, which are outdoor air conditioning equipment, need to be shaded.
  • If you’re going to be gone for more than four hours on a warm day, turn up the thermostat to 80°F or higher.
  • It won’t cool your house more quickly to set the thermostat lower than usual.
  • Cooking, laundry, and dishwashing are activities that should ideally be saved for early morning or late evening.

Tips for Conserving Energy in the Cold

Photo: Dan Gold on Unsplash

  • Set your thermostat at 68°F or less because every additional degree of heating will result in a six to eight percent increase in energy use.
  • Be sure to wear warm clothing.
  • At night, cover yourself with more blankets.
  • To circulate the heat that accumulates close to the ceiling, switch ceiling fans to reverse.
  • During the winter, use insulated curtains to block out the light from windows.
  • Open internal blinds, curtains, or shades during the day to allow the sun to warm your house in the winter.

Basic Energy-Saving Advice

Lighting

Photo: Regency Lighting

  • Compact fluorescent lights should take the place of all incandescent lights.
  • Always turn off the lights in spaces that aren’t being used.
  • Make sure that the recommended wattage listed on the light socket is not exceeded by the bulbs.
  • It is more efficient to use one bulb with a higher wattage than two with lower wattages.
  • Direct illumination, such as that used for reading, is more effective than lighting the entire room brightly.
  • Regularly clean light bulbs.

Electrified Water Heaters

  • Patch up dripping faucets. Leaks in your hot water system need to be fixed right away because they can drastically increase your usage of electricity.
  • Regularly drain the sediment from your hot water tank.
  • Think about getting a tankless water heater; they’re 35–45 percent more efficient, pay for themselves in 3–5 years, and never run out of hot water.
  • An insulating blanket should be wrapped around the hot water heater.
  • Your hot water heater’s thermostat should be set lower. You can save 3-5 percent on energy bills for every 10 degrees you lower the temperature. Unless your dishwasher has a built-in water heater, in which case 130°F to 140°F is advised for the best cleaning.

Climate Control, Heating, and Ventilation (HVAC)

Photo: Country Living

  • With a filter that has a MERV 11 rating or greater, clean or replaces furnace filters once per month (or as necessary).
  • Ascertain the appropriate system size for your home for your HVAC system.
  • Request a professional to check your HVAC system before the arrival of cooler or warmer weather.
  • Make that the insulation in your duct system is adequate and that there are no air leaks.
  • To improve ventilation and circulation all throughout your home, think about adding a “whole house fan.”
  • Never combine an air conditioner with a humidifier or an evaporator (“swamp”) cooler.
  • Vents in rooms that aren’t being used should be closed.

Appliances

  • If your dishwasher has an air-dry option, use it. If not, open the door after the last rinse cycle to dry the dishes.
  • Dishwashers and washers should only be used when completely loaded.
  • Keep your freezer and refrigerator filled. When they are full, they run more effectively.
  • Avoid stuffing the dryer too full when drying clothes, and if an automatic setting is offered, use it. If at all feasible, place dry cargo next to one another. Between loads, don’t forget to clean the lint filter.
  • If you don’t really need that extra refrigerator in the garage, unplug it or recycle it. The second-largest electricity users in a home are often refrigerators. Consider replacing your refrigerator if it is older than ten years.
  • Always select appliances with the Energy Star label.
  • Unplug all electrical gadgets, chargers, and appliances while not in use, with the exception of refrigerators and freezers that maintain food’s frigid temperature. Even when they are in “Off” or “Power Save Mode,” they can still consume a significant amount of energy. Consider connecting these gadgets to power strips that have an on/off switch.
  • Make that the outside air vent for the dryer is completely sealed.
  • Keep the condenser coils on the back of your freezer and refrigerator clean.
  • Consult Energy Star for information on the models they have endorsed to consume less energy, save money, and contribute to environmental protection when thinking about buying new appliances.

Extra Advice

  • Ventilation fans in bathrooms and kitchens should not be left on for longer than necessary because they exchange indoor air for outdoor air.
  • Install resilient materials in light colors and add insulation to improve your roof.
  • Place weather stripping around windows, outside doors, and other openings, and fill up cracks.
  • An average household can save roughly $100 a year by using programmable thermostats.
  • Take quick showers as opposed to baths.

Source: PUC of Texas

Simple Techniques for Energy Saving at Home

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Whenever it comes to combating air pollution and global warming, action at the state and federal levels is unquestionably critical for achieving real change. Smaller actions that you can take every day in your own home are also important. Those certain simple habits, simple home improvements, and wise purchasing decisions can add up to significant energy reductions over time. Skeptical? Give them a shot. Allow your utility bill to speak for itself.

1. Shop more wisely

Photo: American Home Shield

Numerous stainless appliances today use a fraction of those from 20 years ago. When shopping, look for items that have the Energy Star label. They typically consume 10 to 50% less electricity than some other new models. Purchaser rebates on Energy Star-rated models are offered by certain electricity companies and even state governments.

2. Use no more energy than necessary

Run the dishwasher only when it is full, set your machine to the suitable water level, and wash clothes in cold water. Set your refrigerator to 28 to 42 degrees Fahrenheit and your freezer to 0 to 5, and make sure both are tightly sealed. The clothes dryer is one of the most energy-intensive appliances in the home, frequently using as much as a new refrigerator, dishwasher, and clothes washer combined. When possible, air-dry your clothes, and if you must use a washing machine, make sure to clean the lint filter after each use.

3. Turn everything off

Photo: picjumbo.com from Pexels

This does not just mean turning off the lights once you leave a room. You must also turn off your computer, video game consoles, television, cable boxes, and digital video recorders when not in use—or disconnect them totally and utterly if they brighten up or use energy even when turned off. Tablets, Cell phones, and other battery-powered device chargers use small amounts of energy even when not charging. Connect objects you use frequently to a power cord so you can easily turn them all off at once.

4. Set the thermostat

Your ability to save energy is largely contingent on the settings you choose, even if you purchase the most energy-efficient air conditioner, heater, or water heater available. If you own your house, consider installing a programmable thermostat. They cost $100 or less and can reduce energy consumption by 20 to 30 percent — saving $180 a year—by regulating the temperature throughout the day.

Additionally, check the temperature settings on your electric or gas water heater. It works harder than necessary—and costs you more money—to ensure that hot water is constantly available for you if it is set higher than you actually need. Your setting is too high if the hot water from your tap almost burns your hand.

5. Take an electric reading

Photo: PCMag

An energy monitor meter, such as a Kill A Watt Meter, attempts to measure how much energy each device in your home consumes when turned on and off. These are typically less than $30 at home improvement retailers and can provide numerous aha moments. For instance, you could demonstrate that your “turned off” DVR set-top box from your cable or satellite provider is drawing approximately 20 watts even when you are not watching or capturing a show.

6. Recycling outdated electronics

When you purchase new, energy-efficient electronics and appliances, it’s crucial to properly dispose of the old ones. Give older family members working electronics like phones, computers, and tablets, or go online for buy-back schemes. Retailers like Best Buy and Staples have comprehensive in-store recycling programs for functional and nonworking gadgets; regardless of where you purchased them, they will accept most electronics and dispose of them correctly for free.

7. Fill in the gaps

Photo: Mr. Handyman

When all the gaps around windows and doors in an average American house are added together, you get an equal amount of a 3-foot by 3-foot hole in the wall. Seal air leaks with caulk and weatherstrip, and use window putty to fill gaps around loose window panes. And also, attach “sweeps” or “shoes” to the bottoms of doors to prevent heated or cooled air from escaping. Caulking may be an effective way to stop drafts but it is also advisable to replace old windows with energy-efficient windows.

8. Purchase smarter bulbs

Photo: CNet

At home improvement stores, an LED light bulb can cost as little as $5 and save more than $100 over its lifetime. LEDs use up to 85% less energy than incandescent bulbs to produce the same amount of light, and those come in a variety of colors, shapes, and intensities. They can also work with dimmers and reach full light output instantly. Check to see if your utility offers a reimbursement for energy-efficient bulbs, which would reduce their cost even more.)

9. Pick renewable energy sources

Choose a sustainable energy source, such as solar, wind, low-impact hydroelectric, or geothermal, if you are able to select your own energy provider. In some states, you can support renewable energy by adding a small surcharge to your electric account rather than selecting a particular electricity provider. Find out your possibilities by asking your electrical provider.

Source: NRDC

8 Strategies to Cut Winter Energy Costs

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The weather outside is terrible. And so is your utility bill. This spring and summer bill shock, however, can be avoided by controlling your energy usage and working to make a few adjustments to your home. We discussed energy conservation in a previous post, and several of the same rules apply to the cold winter months.

Here are 8 money-saving ideas to think about as you snuggle up for the winter:

1. Disconnect appliances

Photo: Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

Although the rule applies all year, it is especially important to unplug appliances that are not in use during the winter. When computers or electronics are plugged into an outlet, they generate phantom energy. Thus, remove your plugged-in phone from the wall, buy a few power strips, and save electricity!

2. Utilize heat only when needed

Some other way to reduce your energy usage is to heat only when necessary. According to the United States Department of Energy, lowering your thermostat by 7-10 degrees could save you up to 10% per year.

Alter your thermostat throughout the day when you are at work or sleeping. Installing a smart thermostat in your home that you can control with your mobile phone is indeed a remedy. Users can use automation or computer-controlled features to keep the house warm while they are away. This will additionally help you better comprehend and maintain your home’s energy.

If you do not utilize a room often, do not heat it. Why not save money if your guest room or basement is empty during the winter?

3. Maintain airflow

Once you are awake and at home, you must check that your heater is working properly. Check that no furniture or appliances are blocking any vents.

Warm air rises, so set your fans to reverse to return that sneaky warm air to you and your family.

4. Eliminate air leaks

Air leakage is a major cause of high energy bills. Here are some suggestions for reducing leakage:

  • a. Caulk the windows to ensure that no warm air escapes through them.
  • b. Install weather stripping and door sweeps to keep out the cold air.
  • c. Inspect for leaks in the attic and air ducts to reduce energy waste.
  • d. At last, you may want to consider getting an energy audit to determine which areas are inefficient.

5. Dress warmly and use blankets to stay warm

Photo: Vlad Tchompalov on Unsplash

Warming your body is far more cost-effective than heating your home. Reduce the temperature on the thermostat and compensate by wearing comfortable sweaters and warm clothes around the house. Keep warm at night with a warm blanket, comforter, or duvet.

If you are worried about keeping your pets warm, think about getting them a doggie sweater. Sweatshirts are not suitable for cats. Cats not only dislike clothing, but they also appear to have a natural ability to find the warmest spot in the house.

6. Select LED Lighting for home

Photo: Wall Street Journal

LED lighting is the most energy-efficient option available today. They use 75% less energy than standard incandescent bulbs and last 25 times as long. A standard wall socket can handle 25 strings of holiday LED lights connected end to end.

7. Allow the sun to shine during the day, and draw shades at night

Photo: Healthline

The sun is a fantastic source of free heat, which is why the family cat prefers to nap in sunbeams. By leaving your curtains and blinds open during the day, you are utilizing the greenhouse effect and allowing the sun to naturally heat your home.

Sadly, because windows are not as well insulated as your walls, they can also be a source of heat loss. When the sun goes down, close your curtains and blinds to avoid cold chills from entering your home. To improve the energy efficiency of your windows, consider purchasing insulated curtains.

8. Create a plan

Choosing the appropriate energy plan for your house will give you confidence in the fact that your monthly payment will not surprise you. Many businesses offer a flat rate for services, ensuring consistent costing throughout the season.

If you follow these simple energy-saving tips, you can enjoy an energy-efficient and stress-free winter without being concerned about high electric bills.

Keys to Saving Energy During The Fall

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Photo: Techno Shaman from Pexels

Fall energy savings can enable you to save money on your energy bill and lessen the amount of tear and wear on your system. This all starts with a thorough inspection of your heating system and regular maintenance, among many other important home power energy-saving tips. Several businesses include maintenance in their A/C service plans, which become packages that merge home service security and utilities.

Tips for Fall Heating that Saves Energy

Below are some power-saving tips for heating your house and keeping it running smoothly this fall.

1. Reduce the temperature in your house to conserve electricity

Photo: Dan LeFebvre on Unsplash

Running your heating system less frequently is a simple way to save energy in the fall. Maintaining your room temperature between 68 and 70 degrees during the daylight hours and lower at night will help you save money on heating your home. If you’re capable of putting on a sweater, the few degrees of difference in temperature could arise in seasonal savings.

Numerous people fail to remember to turn down one‘s heating systems at night. One advantage of a smart thermostat is that you do not need to rely on the dram. The thermostat will change the temperature based on the schedule you specify.

2. Use less energy to heat the water

Without mentioning your hot-water heater, no list of fall energy tips would be complete. Double-check the temperature to ensure it is not excessively high. A temperature of 95 degrees Fahrenheit is sufficient for most people to wash dishes and bathe.

If you purchase a blanket for your water heater, you can actually accomplish even more energy-efficient heating for the fall. Stores are selling insulation that you can wrap around your unit to keep heat in.

3. Open and close drapes or any window treatment

Photo: Steinar Engeland on Unsplash

Users can save even more money on fall energy by harnessing the energy from the sun. Once the light comes through your windows, open the curtains and drapes. Solar heat from a well-insulated window can raise the temperature of a room by many degrees without requiring your heater to work harder. Pull your curtains tightly closed as the sunshine fades to add another layer of insulating material between the rooms and cold outdoors in your home.

4. Switch the direction of your ceiling fans

Photo: Maxwell Ingham on Unsplash

Continuing to improve heat circulation allows you to accomplish more with less, helping to make it one of the best fall heating tips to implement. Because warm air rises, the warmest air in the room is near the ceiling, which has no effect on your convenience. In the winter, turn ceiling fans clockwise at a low rpm to draw cooler air up from the floor. The warm air is pushed out toward your wall surfaces and down into your living space as it flows upward.

5. Avoid blocking your vents

It may seem obvious, however, one of the best (and simplest) fall heating tips is to ensure that air can move naturally from your vents. If you have home furniture or drapes that block your vents, you may be wasting time and energy by blocking heat from entering and circulating in the room. If you are unable to move the furniture or drapes, a cost-efficient solution is to purchase vent extenders, which lead air from vents under couches or from behind drapes out into the room.

6. Assess your home’s insulation

In case you have not checked your insulation in a few years, now is the time. Insulation, believe it or not, does wear out. Makers are constantly striving to enhance their merchandise. Some of the new attic insulation types may be so much better that it’s worth the effort and money investment to add to or replace current insulation.

7. Search and fix any drafts

Photo: eduard on Unsplash

Consider using weather-stripping to close gaps that allow cold drafts in for long-term energy savings. Check and replace worn weather-stripping around doors and windows. But keep in mind that not all weather-stripping is the same. Sealing a garage door, for example, requires different weather-stripping than sealing your front door.

Check for gaps and cracks around the foundation of your home, as well as doors, windows, and areas where essential services enter your home. Caulking these can help keep heat in your home.

Source: Santee Cooper

How to Save Money on Energy with These 8 Tips

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We scoured the Internet for the best money-saving energy hacks. Check out these easy ways to save energy in your home.

1. Planting trees to keep your home cool

Photo: Pixabay

Planting more trees in your yard has environmental and aesthetic benefits, but did you know it can also save you money? Planting trees on the south or southwest side of one’s home can help reduce your energy bill by up to 25%, according to Organic Gardening. Because the tree branches shield your home from direct sunlight, you will have much less heat in your home and your air conditioner will have to work less. Plus, a nice view of greenery from your window.

2. Towels can be used for weather-stripping

Towels are the best DIY weather stripping. Especially in apartments if you are not allowed to make any adjustments to your apartment, a rolled-up towel can be used as temperature stripping. Roll up towels and place them around drifty doors and windows in the winter to keep warm air inside.

3. Washing your clothing in cold water

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Mother Earth News reports. According to the website, you should wash all of your garments in cold water. It can be just as effective as washing your clothing items in hot water with a cold-water detergent, and it will cost you a lot of money on water heating costs. According to the website, cold water washing will only cost $0.03 per load.

4. Sort out wrinkled garments in the shower

When you use Style Caster’s cool hack, there is no need to waste time and energy on an iron. Because once you take a shower, hang up a saggy shirt or dress in your bathroom. In about 10 minutes, the steam will help sort out an unkempt garment. You will want to get it as close to the steam as you can without getting it wet. Furthermore, maintain the bathroom door closed to keep the steam in the room.

5. Place a bottle of soda on your toilet tank

When it comes to water conservation, you may not really think of your toilet, yet you can easily modify it to consume less water. We simply love this tip: Put a 2-liter bottle of soda in your toilet tank to save water with each flush. Wash the bottle of soda and eliminate any labels before filling it with water and placing it in the tank with a few rocks or marbles. According to this site, using this simple trick could save a family of four 3,000 gallons of water per year.

6. Run your ceiling fan clockwise in the winter

Photo: Kalyanaraman S on Unsplash

Ceiling fans are not just for use in the summer. In the winter, use the device to keep your house warm. Mom 4 Real suggests changing the guideline of your ceiling fan in the cold season to push excess heat down. You will need to utilize your heater less frequently and save a lot of money on electricity bills. Nevertheless, in the summer, ensure the fan is rotating counter-clockwise. This creates a draft, which can help you stay cool.

7. Using a power strip will stop standby power

Photo: Everyday Cheapskate

When electronics, such as game consoles, are in standby mode, they continue to consume power. These hidden energy squanderers may be responsible for up to 10% of total power consumption in the United States. Together We Save provides this simple—but brilliant—trick for preventing phantom energy. Simply attach your devices to a power strip. When you are not using your devices, you can turn everything off. You won’t have to unplug each one individually, allowing you to optimize your energy savings. If you are ready and able to spend a little money, consider investing in a smart power strip, which can automatically turn off power to an unused device.

8. Fan blades should be 12-degree pitched

If you want to save money on cooling, try this CeilingFan.com tip to make sure you’re getting the most benefit from your ceiling fan. To improve airflow and keep your home cool, ensure your ceiling fan blades are pitched 12 degrees. Anything further forces the fan motor to work harder. Anything less will result in less air circulation.

4 Cheap Ways to Increase Home Energy Efficiency

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We have all heard the expression “work smarter, not harder,” but probably not in relation to your home’s energy usage.

What exactly is power efficient? It’s your home’s equivalent of “working smarter” by performing the very same tasks with much less power.

Making your home more energy-efficient necessitates a renewed focus on your power consumption routines. Where, when, and how you use your energy defines whether or not you’re making the most efficient use of it. Why don’t more people prioritize energy efficiency because it’s beneficial to the environment and your wallet?

For some, the words “energy efficiency” conjure up images of dollar signs. Although some fixes are more expensive than others (such as displacing your roof), there are numerous inexpensive ways to enhance energy efficiency at home—some for as little as $50!

Below are some energy-saving tips for your home that will lead to improved energy efficiency and, as an outcome, lower electric bill costs.

1. Locate the air gap entrance

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Windows and doors may indeed be affecting your thermostat to run continuously. Air transfer pushes your heating and cooling systems to work more regularly due to heat loss (in the winter) or cold air loss (in the summer).

2. Increase insulation

Photo: Forbes

If you believe you can help shield your entire building for less than $50, you are mistaken! Fortunately, we have a sneaky way to reduce your insulating material costs while still completing the project.

Purchase around $40 to $60 of insulation from your local hardware store. Next, go to your cellar and look for an exposed surface with insufficient insulating material. Take special care of the joists and the perimeter of your attic. If there is any leftover insulation, wrap it around the attic door. When it tends to come to hot or cold gas escaping into your attic, these two areas are customarily the most common culprits. Insulation is essential for increasing the energy efficiency of your home. Your thermostat works to maintain a specific temperature. Reduce this issue by caulking door frames and window panes to prevent air transfer. This caulk will seal all of the small gaps, preventing air from escaping or entering the house. This reduces the strain on your HVAC system to compensate for temperature loss or gain. The best part is that this fix will charge you far less than $50. You only need a tube of caulk, a caulking gun, and some time. Make sure to complete this task when it is bright outside.

3. Dim drapes

Photo: This Old House

Have you ever started to notice that some rooms in your house seem to be consistently hotter than others? Or have you noticed that you need to run the air conditioner longer in one room than another? Take note of how the sun affects space. Consider acquiring blackout curtains if you want to lower the temperature of a room without wanting to run the air conditioner all day.

The colors live up to their name; once installed, your room will be extremely dark. However, many people prefer to put these in their bedrooms to block out light and try to cool the room before going to bed. What is one of our favorite aspects of blackout shades? How reasonably priced they are! A set of six colors costs less than $30. They are available in a variety of materials and sizes, making them ideal for use with any size window.

4. Acquire LED Bulbs

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LED lights, in case you haven’t heard, are the way to go. For a cheap amount, you can get several LED bulbs to replace your standard bulbs, allowing you to build a more electricity-efficient home.

LED lights function by light emission in only one area. Because reflectors and diffusers are no longer required, the bulbs are more efficient than traditional alternatives. LED lighting consumes 75% less power than electric bulbs and can last up to 25 times as long.

These bulbs save a lot of energy and offer a variety of shapes, wattages, temperatures, and colors. You can convey yourself while saving both money and the environment—we call that a win-win situation!

5. Spend less through shrubs

Photo: This Old House

In maintaining the shade theme, we’d like to share an energy-saving idea for protecting your home from the elements. External shade can sometimes benefit first-story (and sometimes second-story) windows. You can get a bush, plant, or tree that provides significant shade against the sun for $50.

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Tips for Saving Energy During Summertime

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Photo: michal anderson on Unsplash

Particularly if your home is not as energy-efficient as it may be, the severe summer temperatures of Texas necessitate practically continual air conditioning. Nevertheless, you may still use your house as a sanctuary throughout the summer without having to sacrifice your cash. Make use of these suggestions to keep your house cool and cozy till the summer heat subsides.

Maintain Your Central Air Conditioning

Your central air conditioner will operate frequently during the long Texas summer. In order to keep your system operating as effectively as possible, maintenance is essential. You might eventually save enough energy to make up for any maintenance costs. Some things you can do on your own. Up to 15% more efficiency can be achieved with air conditioning by just changing a blocked air filter. Keeping furniture far from vents and routinely sweeping any dust from your system’s registers will both increase the effectiveness of your air conditioner.

Unplug your devices

Photo: Shipley Energy

By removing standby electricity that chargers, and conventional power strips use even while not in use, disconnecting gadgets from their appropriate outlets or by using smart power strips can help cut energy expenditures when you do decide to leave the house.

Minimize Airflow

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Windows, doors, and other tiny spaces allow cool air to easily leave your house. In particular during the summertime, reducing cold air loss and humid air infiltration can significantly improve the efficiency of your home. Use caulk to fill in any gaps and add weather-stripping around doors and windows to further improve efficiency in order to preserve the thermal envelope of your home.

Learn Thermostat Basics Thoroughly

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By carefully regulating the cooling system of your home, smart programmable thermostats can save your electricity consumption. To use as little air conditioning as possible, calibrate your thermostat as close as you can to the air temp outside. Additionally, keep any lights and appliances far off from the thermostat to prevent an incorrect reading that can force your air conditioner to operate longer than necessary.

Additionally, you can program your thermostat to increase the temperature at night or when the outdoor temperature is low when you aren’t home. Don’t turn the thermostat all the way down if you get home to a warm house; you would not get your house cooler any faster and you will probably waste energy by overcooling it.

Minimize Appliance Usage

It might seem like a no-brainer to use fewer appliances, but you can also make your house cooler by doing so. There is a moderate amount of heat produced by electronics like hair dryers, stereos, desktop computer, dishwashers, and ovens which produce significantly more heat. On warm days, think about using a microwave or cooking outside to preserve the cooling impact in your home.

One technique you could do is filling your washing machine and dishwasher completely every time you use any. It will be also helpful if you run them at night when it is cooler to further limit your electricity usage. Additionally, think about replacing your old appliances with Energy Star models which use power just as sparingly as you do.

Ceiling Fan Helps

Photo: Bob Vila

An air-conditioned room might be felt cooler thanks to a ceiling fan. You can increase your thermostat’s temperature and save more energy because of this cooling impact. Convectional cooling, however, just modifies your perception of temperature; it has no impact on the real ambient air temperature of the room. In other words, the fan will make you feel cool when you are in the same room with it, but the temperature in your house would not change. Therefore, keep in mind to turn off the fans whenever you leave a space.

Spend Some Time Outside

Lastly, you might as well spend the most of summer having fun. Right, you just want to avoid from the summer heat by cooling at home. But other than socializing with others and enjoying activities we cannot do in the winter, what is the purpose of summer? You do not use the energy that’d otherwise be utilized to cool you off when you are outside the house. Your energy expenditures can be decreased by turning off the lights, the air conditioner, and appliances that use a lot of electricity, like the water heater or the stove.