1. Not Unplugging Unused Appliances and Electronics
You don’t have to keep all your appliances plugged in all the time. According to The Spruce, 15-amp circuits are the required energy amount for small appliances. Of course, you need to have your refrigerator plugged in. However, you can easily unplug your toaster, coffee maker, and blender when not in use.
2. Not Fixing Drafty Windows
Windows are a major culprit of air leaks. According to the Department of Energy, an unsealed or cracked window can lose as much as 25% to 30% of your warm or cool air. If you’re dealing with old, cracked single-pane windows, it’s time to make an energy adjustment to modern double-paned ones. Your window installers will ensure they’re properly sealed, so you no longer have energy going out.
3. Not Hanging Up Window Treatments
Did you know that your window treatments serve a purpose beyond decoration? As much as 20% of air disperses through your windows, so the right blinds or shades can make a difference in insulation. Choose blinds in materials like wood or metal. Get shades with beautiful prints or install shutters. You can get curtains ranging from sheer to thick fabric and layer them.
4. Not Changing Your HVAC Filter
Your HVAC unit isn’t just for supplying warm or cool air. It also makes a difference in your ventilation and filtration. That’s why you should always have regular inspections, so the contractor can change your filter when needed. When the air filter becomes clogged, it’s hard for air to properly get through. With a new AC air filter, expect an energy consumption reduction of 5% to 15%.
5. Not Scheduling Regular HVAC Maintenance
Once you have an AC installed, your work isn’t over yet. Regular maintenance ensures your unit stays in compliance in terms of air heating, cooling, filtration, and other health regulations. Contractors can quickly spot things you may not have noticed that can be going wrong in your unit, such as mold or dust collection or parts becoming worn down. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, as many as 75% of American homes have air conditioners. Air conditioners account for 6% of all electrical consumption, at an annual cost of about $29 billion to homeowners.
6. Ignoring Warning Signs You Need Repairs
Your HVAC unit or appliances may be giving away signs that they’re in drastic need of repairs. According to Forbes, some of the common signs you need a heating repair include weird sounds, extremely high energy bills, short cycles, and uneven distribution of heat or inadequate airflow. You may notice that your refrigerator is also making weird sounds or is now leaking more than ever. At some point, you’ll have to replace your appliances, and the best way to do so is by using the Energy Star brand.
Dealing with energy bills is a part of owning a home or business. After all, you need electricity for light and to allow your appliances to operate. You have to charge your computers and other devices. The larger your family is, the more devices you have to consider. As you can see, hope isn’t lost when saving money on these monthly bills. By using the advice in this guide, your home budget will have more money left over before you know it.
