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Adjust your day-to-day behaviours
To reduce your energy consumption, you don’t necessarily need to go out and purchase energy-efficient products. Energy conservation can be as simple as turning off lights or appliances when you don’t need them. You can also use energy-intensive appliances less by doing tasks manually, like air-drying your clothes instead of using the dryer, or washing dishes by hand. -
Replace your light bulbs
Traditional incandescent light bulbs consume an excessive amount of electricity and must be replaced more often than their energy-efficient alternatives. Halogen incandescent bulbs, compact fluorescent lights (CFLs), and light-emitting diode bulbs (LEDs) use anywhere from 25-80% less electricity and last three to 25 times longer than traditional bulbs. -
Use natural light
Take advantage of natural light during the day. Instead of turning on the lights, open your curtains and let the sun in. This will not only help reduce your energy consumption, it can also help enhance your mood. -
Unplug unused electronics
Even when you’re not using them, appliances and electronics use energy. In fact, the U.S. Department of Energy reports that even when switched off, these devices can still use up to 10% of your home’s total energy. Consider unplugging any devices you don’t use frequently, like an extra refrigerator or television. -
Install a programmable thermostat
A programmable thermostat allows you to schedule automatic increases and decreases in your home’s temperature. This helps avoid using unnecessary energy when you’re out of the house. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can save up to 10% a year on heating and cooling by simply adjusting your thermostat 7-10 degrees Fahrenheit for 8 hours per day. -
Install energy-efficient windows
Windows can cause significant heat loss in your home. By installing energy-efficient windows, you can significantly reduce your home’s heating and cooling costs. Look for the ENERGY STAR logo when shopping for new windows. -
Install solar panels
Another great tip for the homeowner looking to save on energy is to install solar panels. Solar panels use the sun’s energy to generate electricity for your home. This can significantly reduce your energy costs, and in some cases, you may even be able to sell excess energy back to the grid. -
Use a power strip for your electronics
One of the easiest ways to save energy is to use a power strip for your electronics. This allows you to easily turn off all of your electronics at once, eliminating phantom energy use. -
Improve your home insulation
Proper insulation can make your home more energy-efficient by trapping heat in during the winter and keeping it out during the summer. The attic, walls, floors, basement, and crawlspace are areas that should be properly insulated. -
Invest in energy-efficient appliances
Although they may be more expensive initially, energy-efficient appliances can save you more money over time. Look for appliances with the ENERGY STAR label, which is a federal guarantee that the appliance will consume less energy during use and when on standby than standard models. -
Wash clothes in cold water
About 90% of the energy used for washing clothes is for heating the water. Switching your temperature setting from hot to warm can cut a load’s energy use in half. -
Update your HVAC system
An inefficient HVAC system can cause your energy bill to skyrocket. By upgrading to a high-efficiency system, you can save energy and improve the comfort of your home. Before investing in a new system, think about your climate and the size of your home. -
Install a tankless water heater
Unlike a traditional water heater that constantly heats a whole tank of water, a tankless water heater heats water only when you need it. This can save a significant amount of energy. -
Plant shade trees and shrubs around your house
If your home is older, with relatively poor insulation, planting trees around your house can help to cool down your home. The less your home is exposed to the sun, the less you will need to use your air conditioner. -
Install a green roof
A green roof is a roof that is covered with vegetation, which can drastically reduce heating and cooling costs, as well as insulate your home from outside noise.
By implementing these energy-saving tips, you can significantly reduce your energy consumption and save money on your energy bills. Remember, small changes can have a big impact on your energy consumption. Start small and gradually implement more changes as you become comfortable with your new energy-saving habits.
