How To Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

Susan Gentry

We’re all doing what we can to be more energy efficient these days.  It improves the planet and our pocketbooks.  Here are some tips that we have found helpful in reducing energy costs in our home.  Let us know if you use these methods and how they work for you.

1. Conserve Water

• Plumbing-install low flow shower heads/ fixtures and low flush toilets
• Take shorter showers
• Use reusable cups instead of disposable
• Install a drinking filter or system- instead of using bottled water

2. Insulate

• Use weather stripping or caulk for your doors & windows, and your ducts
• Spray or roll additional insulation into your attic

3. Water heater

• Keep temp @ 120 degrees-any higher than that is wasting energy
• Wrap your water heater ( sold at any hardware stores )

4. Lights

• Turn off lights when you leave a room ( just like Mama said )
• Use energy efficient bulbs

5. Appliances

• Buy energy efficient when available
• Unplug appliances not in use- plugged in draws energy

6. Thermostat

• Keep your thermostat at a comfortable setting- not extremely hot or cold
• Adjust temp when your asleep at night or while away at work

7. Lawn/Garden

• Mow late day to reduce emissions
• Use compost for a natural fertilizer

8. Leaks

• Repair faucets/shower heads dripping/ toilets running
• Seal/repair walls or roof leaks

9. Electronics

• Turn off your computer, laptop or tv – when your not using it

10. Ceiling Fans

• Use to move air pockets and keep air circulating to improve temp in home