These days, it seems everyone is improving their efforts to be more sustainable. From ride sharing to recycling, “green” is on the tip of nearly everyone’s tongue. But how green is your home? There are some easy steps you can take to improve the energy efficiency of your home, which not only helps the environment—it saves you big bucks.
Below are six ways you can make your home more energy efficient.
1. Begin by focusing on those small cracks and crevices around doors and windows. According to Lowe’s, a 1/8-in. space between a standard exterior door and its threshold is equivalent to a 2 sq.-in. hole in the wall. Close those gaps to save up to 15 percent in heating and cooling costs and also reduce the demand on your heating and cooling system.
2. Lower your water heater’s thermostat setting; less heat means less fuel, and you likely don’t need your shower scalding.
- Blanket or insulate the water heater to reduce the amount of heat lost by the unit, particularly if it is located in an unheated area.4. Insulate water pipes, at least the hot water pipes, to prevent heat loss that can cause your water heater to work harder.
5. Change furnace filters to prevent reduced airflow through the heating/cooling system and overheating that can lead to premature compressor damage in the A/C systems.
6. Install water-saving shower heads, and, if possible, purchase a water-saving toilet.
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