As people continue to be more conscious of their carbon footprint, reducing the amount of waste and energy we consume has become a huge priority for homeowners. Thankfully, we are living in an era of technology and innovation which is helping us to not only live consciously but also live with ease. But, with all the smart and amazing technologies around us, why aren’t people living greener?
Here are 10 ways to help you live greener and conserve energy:
Make use of energy efficient products
To reduce the amount of energy consumed in your home make use of energy efficient products. You can also start from simple changes like using timers for lights and appliances when not in use.
Consider minimising the use of energy-intensive appliances and performing tasks manually like air drying instead of using a clothes dryer or washing the dishes by hand as opposed to using a dishwasher. You can also try turning down the heat of the thermostat and using less air conditioner. Doing this can save half of an average home’s utility bills.
Make use of low flow shower heads
Install low flow shower heads to improve your home’s water efficiency. This will not only save tons of wasted water, but they are also quite conventional. too! Further, a low flow shower head has a water flow rate less than 9 litres per minute, versus conventional shower heads that use around 15 litres per minute.
Use smart power strips
The use of electricity from appliances, especially when they in standby or sleep mode is a major source of energy consumption. With smart power strips, also called as advanced power strips, you can help in eliminate phantom loads. You can set smart power strips on an assigned time to auto and turn of appliances off.
Buy appliances that have energy star ratings
While very obvious for consumers to understand, energy efficient appliances are always more expensive than a low energy rating appliances. However, in the long run their operating cost is much lower than other conventional models. As they are more energy efficient, when buying any new appliances look for the ‘energy star’ label and rating stickers to ensure you're reducing your energy consumption.
Seal all windows and doors to consume energy
Apart from purchasing energy efficient appliances, you should consider sealing air leaks in and around the home. Check all windows and doors and to ensure there are no leakages. If you have drafty windows, add weatherstrips around the window frames. Cover any cracks by applying a sheet of shrink film on windows. You can also cover them by using a bead of silicon caulk on the cracks. Sealing all cracks and leakages is one of the easiest and inexpensive ways to cut down on costs.
Keep a check on your HVAC system
HVAC system comprises of heating, air conditioning and ventilation, in which heating alone can account for more than 40% of home energy consumption. However, air conditioners are not a great contributors to energy bills as compared to the heating systems. Check your HVAC system and improve your energy efficiency.
Check ventilation systems as well to improve energy efficiency. If the ducts are not sealed or insulated it can result in energy wastage and could add hundreds of dollars to your heating and cooling expenses. You can also hire HVAC professionals like some of the businesses listed on the Bricks & Agent app to get your HVAC system checked!
These were just some of the ways you can save energy and can make your home more energy efficient and reduce your bills.
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