Your carbon footprint starts at home. From your laundry habits to the structure of your house, everyday household routines and objects affect the environment. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to make your home more efficient and reduce the amount of energy you create. And this benefits both the earth and your wallet.
The following are some quick tips to switch up your habits and make your home more energy-efficient. By making these changes over time, you will quickly be running an environmentally friendly house.
Keep Your HVAC Systems Up To Date
Your heating and air conditioning systems are a significant portion of your home’s energy consumption and your utility bill. Out-of-date systems generally use more energy. So, be sure to upgrade your HVAC systems about every 10-15 years or as needed. You can also switch to a smart thermostat that can allow you to monitor energy consumption in different parts of the house, automatically adjusting to being more efficient. Once you do make all of these changes sure to clean out the filters and keep up with routine maintenance to keep the efficiency high.
Upgrade Drafty Windows
While your old windows might give your home charm, they could also allow air to escape throughout the day. Drafty windows are only less efficient, so you can lower your environmental footprint by repairing or installing new windows. A window or industrial design professional can make recommendations for more efficient models. So, you can watch your energy bills drop and enjoy a more comfortable home.
Mind Your Laundry
Your washer and dryer may use more energy than you realize, so you can save energy by changing your laundry habits. Wash your clothes in cold water whenever possible, and hang your clothes out to dry. You can also install a clothesline in your laundry room to use in colder seasons. If your washer and dryer are outdated, consider upgrading them for more efficient models.
Plant Trees Around Your House
Planting trees is undoubtedly good for the planet, but this greenery can make your home more efficient. Trees and shrubs around your home provide shade, reducing your need to switch on the air conditioning when the temperature increases. You can also enjoy breezy outdoor space during warm times of the year, reducing your desire to sit inside in the air conditioning.
Dispose Of Waste Properly
Improper waste disposal may not directly impact your home, but it certainly increases your carbon footprint. Be mindful of what should be thrown out, recycled, and composted. You might also consider a used cooking oil collection service to keep this waste out of landfills, and more importantly, out of your drains.
Switch To LED Light Bulbs
This simple switch can reduce the amount of electricity required to power your home. LED lightbulbs only use about $22 of electricity in their entire lifespan, often four times less than traditional bulbs. You can lower your home’s carbon footprint and enjoy cost savings over time by making this switch.
Schedule An Energy Audit
If you aren’t sure where to begin when creating a more efficient home, consider scheduling an energy audit. This assessment can provide data about your energy consumption and point to areas where you can improve. Once you make the necessary changes, consider scheduling audits every few years to check in on your progress.
Working with your family to create a more efficient household can require habit shifts and renovation projects. However, the effort is well worth it for your environment and your wallet. Just remember that you don’t need to make the changes all at once. Small adjustments over time can add up to significant savings.
