Let’s face it. Every one of us will jump on the opportunity to avoid paying energy bills. Unfortunately, we have to pay as it is the only way to continue enjoying the appliances and other important things that we have inside our homes and offices. However, the good news is that there are things we can do to lower our energy consumption.
So, if you want to save energy, take advantage of these 5 ways:
- Adjust your everyday activities
Although there are certain items you can buy that are capable of lowering your energy consumption, you don’t have to start with that. The first thing you need is changing your day-to-day activities that tend to increase the way you consume energy. The truth is that many of the things you do are not necessary; hence, you can avoid them to cut down your energy consumption.
Here are some vital adjustments that can help you save energy:
- Hang-dry clothes rather than using the dryer
- Use hands to wash dishes instead of using the dishwasher
- Switch off and unplug any appliances you are not using
- Reduce the use of air conditioners
- Install energy-efficient windows and doors
If your windows and doors are not energy-efficient, they may be responsible for about 25% of the sum of your heating bill. This is because these windows and doors will let heat escape your home during the winter and allow heat to come in during the summer. As a result, you will have to use the air conditioning system more than you should have done.
Luckily, you can utilize energy-efficient windows and doors to deal with these issues. These doors and windows feature shades, awnings, screens, and shutters that can offer your home the additional insulation it requires to deal with different weathers.
- Buy energy-efficient appliances
Since your home appliances will probably account for about 13% of the total use of energy, it is worthwhile to find a way to deal with them. Of course, the most effective way to do this is by buying energy-efficient appliances to replace the older ones. Nonetheless, as you are buying energy-efficient appliances, you should consider their operating costs and the original purchase price. This is to make sure that the appliances will save energy and money before buying them.
- Insulate your home
Although a lot of modern homes are already insulated, you may still want to double-check. With proper insulation, you can reduce your energy consumption significantly. Some of the means of insulating your home include the use of exterior blinds or shades and installation of double glazing. You can also ask a building contractor about the things that can help you insulate your home.
- Plant shrubs and trees
Planting shrubs and trees outside of your home can go a long way in making your home cooler during the summer. This will reduce the need to use the air conditioning system; hence, you will lower your energy consumption. However, this method is for the long term. Notably, make sure that you only plant fast-growing shrubs.
So, which of these ways are you ready to use to save energy?
