Lower energy consumption in your Asheville home means lower energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint. The good news is that there are a lot of little changes you can make in your home that will add up to big savings, and you can start today.
6 Ways to Save
- Switch out light bulbs. Incandescent light bulbs use 75 percent more energy than twisty, low-energy compact fluorescent light bulbs, or CFLs. They also burn out six times faster.
- Plug into power strips. Some electronics draw electricity even when they’re turned off. Plug VCRs, computer monitors, printers and similar items, also known as energy vampires, into power strips, and turn the power strip off when you aren’t using the devices.
- Seal air leaks. Air infiltration in your home decreases your comfort, makes your HVAC system work overtime to compensate and increases your energy bills. One of the most effective ways to lower energy consumption in the home is to seal leaks around non-movable parts of windows and doors with caulk, and install weatherstripping between the components that move. Seal around service entrances, pipes and vents that pass through exterior walls.
- Replace your HVAC air filter regularly. A dirty air filter prevents air from flowing properly to your system, which makes it work harder to keep you comfortable. Check your air filter monthly, and replace it with a clean, good-quality filter when it’s clogged with debris.
- Choose Energy Star appliances when you’re in the market for a replacement. Energy Star is a government program designed to ensure consumers can easily identify and compare the most energy efficient appliances on the market.
- Maintain your furnace and air conditioner. A poorly-maintained system may use as much as 40 percent more energy to operate than a well-maintained system. Have your air conditioner tuned up in the spring and your furnace in the fall for increased efficiency, better comfort and fewer breakdowns.
For more expert advice on how you can lower energy consumption in your Asheville home, please feel free to contact us at Gentry Service Group.
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