3 Tips for Saving Energy This Fall
Reduce your carbon footprint by checking out these tips for making your home energy efficient!
Fall is approaching, and with it comes pumpkin spice lattes, cozy sweaters, and cooler weather. As you look forward to the upcoming season, now is the perfect time to consider knocking out some of those home improvement projects that you have been putting off due to the heat. One way to save money and improve the overall comfort of your home is to invest in energy-saving technology! Check out three energy-saving tips for your home in Sammamish, WA or the surrounding Puget Sound area, by reading on below!
SEE ALSO: 3 Tips for Home Cooling This Summer
Use Energy-Efficient Appliances
Did you know that appliances account for about 13% of total home energy usage? Appliances add convenience to our life— after all, who wants to hand wash both their kids and their own laundry? We can optimize the way we use our technology by investing in energy-efficient models, such as an appliance with an ENERGY STAR label, a federal guarantee that the device will use less energy both when in use and on standby. For example, ENERGY STAR certified laundry washers consume 25% less energy and 45% less water, and certified refrigerators use 9% less energy.
You might hesitate to upgrade to an energy-efficient model as they have a higher upfront cost. But energy-efficient appliances actually pay off that difference over time. Their operating costs are between 9% and 25% lower than regular models!
Optimize Use of Your Lighting
We use our lights every day, but what if we could illuminate our home while also reducing our energy usage? Try replacing your home’s five most frequently used lights with ENERGY STAR bulbs or LED lights that use less energy (while still achieving the same amount of brightness). Or, you can go even further by installing smart lighting that responds to a touch of a button. Schedule your lights to turn off when you leave for work and install motion sensors to detect when rooms are empty, ensuring lights are only on when you need them.
Smart lighting also has dimming capabilities, meaning you can set them to 50% brightness and only use as much light as you need. Even if you aren't tech-savvy, you can reduce lighting usage by opening your blinds and letting the natural light in.
Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats can automatically determine and implement the best temperature settings for maximum energy efficiency. Access your smart thermostat from anywhere by using an app on your smartphone to check to see if the AC is running when nobody is home. If it is, turn it off with a quick tap on the same screen! Track and monitor your energy usages, such as the amount of time your HVAC system operates, weather information and how it might affect your HVAC system, and customized recommendations for increasing energy efficiency.
Other features such as adaptable timers, room-specific sensors, and smart scheduling will further your energy savings. And a smart thermostat will enhance comfort, too. If your kids like their rooms cold but you like your space warm, you can customize the temperature in each room, so everyone stays happy.
Bob’s Heating & Air Conditioning proudly partners with organizations focused on sustainability and innovation, including Built Green, Energy Star, and Puget Sound Energy. We are here to help you make your home more comfortable and energy-efficient. Call us at 800-840-3346 or contact us online today.
