In the United States, you can find and purchase places to live everywhere. Currently, many Americans become homeowners. Buying your first home, second home, or even third home is quite the adventure. You set off on your own, or with your family in tow- ready to make some everlasting memories. Although, the adventure is exciting, and it’s your chance to build your life and independence, there is a lot of work and effort that goes into owning a home. Renovations will need to be made, because perfection does not exist. Additionally, home improvement tasks could possibly be needed as well. But, this isn’t the most important responsibilities when it comes to owning a home.
Owning a home can be costly. You have to take into consideration air conditioning costs, heating costs, and much more. These factors can all add up in the long run. In fact, The average American home owner will spend around $2,200 on energy bills every year. Yes an energy bill can be extremely high! However, do not fear! There are ways in which your home can save energy, and you can save money!
Heating And Cooling Costs
First, there are ways in which you can lower your heating and cooling costs- which can lead to an energy efficient home. It is important to check all of your windows, doors, and kitchen appliances. Make sure the seals for each of these components of the home are tight and doing their jobs. This means that your windows and doors are not letting air seep through any cracks. Additionally, your refrigerator and freezer is not allowing any cool air to come through. When air escapes, energy is wasted, and your energy bill increases. If your seal is working properly, you can successfully save up to 20% on your heating and cooling costs.
Next, be aware of temperature preferences. Sometimes individuals in your home can feel too cold or too hot. In turn, the thermostat is constantly raised which can increase your use in energy. In order to save your energy cost, it is recommended that you adjust your thermostat when you’re away from your home. The preferred adjustment is 10 degrees. Once you do this, you can save around 10% on your heating and cooling costs.
Energy Saving Products
What can be considered an obvious way to save energy and decrease your energy bills, is purchasing/investing in energy saving products.
Energy Efficient Windows: Energy efficient windows can decrease your energy use. These energy efficient windows can include, but are not limited to, treatments and coverings, and film which is solar controlled. Most importantly, many of these windows come with Low-emissivity glass. This glass will block the sun’s rays by around 90%. This means that the warm air remains in the house when it’s cold outside, and the cool air remains in the house when it’s hot outside. All of these options, and more, can help you save energy.
Energy Efficient HVAC Systems: Companies such as home climate, can install energy efficient HVAC systems in your home. It is important to note that your HVAC system should be replaced once it is ten to fifteen years old. When your HVAC system needs to be replaced, it is ideal to invest in an energy efficient system. Home climate can install an energy efficient one in your home. Energy efficient HVAC systems are becoming increasingly popular in the United States.
If you do not need to replace your HVAC system yet, companies such as home climate can also help your original HVAC system become more energy efficient. This is simply keeping up with maintenance. You should have a company, like home climate, check your HVAC system at the end of each season. This includes the end of winter or the end of summer (whenever the temperature changes drastically). When your system is checked, and running properly, you can save energy use because your system isn’t overworking itself.
Are you ready to save energy and the money in your wallet?