How To Conserve Energy

Learning how to conserve energy is a top priority for many households. Energy conservation reduces utility costs and helps to protect the environment from greenhouse gases and other pollutants. Being aware of how energy is used in your home and taking measures to reduce your use result in significant savings in energy bills over time. Simple practices and habits that save even small amounts will add up to a more efficient household in the long run.

An energy audit of your home may well be worth the initial investment and show you how to conserve the energy you purchase. By hiring a professional contractor to conduct an energy audit you will be given a roadmap to start saving on energy costs. The audit will reveal where the energy leaks are in your home and the auditor will offer advice on minor home improvements that will help you reduce the amount of energy you are losing.

Installing new windows and doors, weather stripping around cracks and putting a thick layer of insulation in the attic are all common recommendations to help plug the holes where costly warm and cool air are escaping your house. A home’s heating and air conditioning systems account for the largest portion of your energy bill so conserving energy is these areas is the most rewarding way to cut down on energy use.

Professional energy audits can be costly but if it is not in your budget, you can still conserve energy through some common-sense practices. Seal off any rooms that are not in regular use. This means closing the air vents and shutting the door. Turn the thermostat down a few degrees in the winter and up a few degrees in the summer. By reducing the temperature of your hot water and using cold water for clothes washing you will be making strides in conserving energy. Many water heaters come with a vacation mode which allows you to turn the temperature way down while you are out of town. Choosing short showers over long baths will also help lessen your energy demands.

Delivering water to your home requires a huge amount of energy and is an often-overlooked way to conserve energy. Be aware of your water use and turn off the tap whenever possible. Repair dripping faucets and running toilets, shut the water off while brushing your teeth and shaving and investigate other ways to limit water use. Keeping a pitcher or watering can handy to fill with half-drunk glasses of water and cooking water will cut back on filling up a watering can from the sink or hose. Use this “reclaimed” water to give your houseplants and outdoor plants a daily drink. Capture water from your roof and gutters by placing a rain barrel under each downspout. Use this free water to irrigate your lawn and landscaping. Patronizing a car wash that uses reclaimed water rather than washing your car in the driveway is an energy conservation step.

Taking the time to find out how to conserve energy around your home will result in lower bills and a healthier planet.