There are several sources of energy loss in the home that can contribute to high energy bills. Some of the biggest energy losses include:
- Heating and cooling: HVAC systems are often the biggest energy users in the home, and they can account for up to half of a home’s energy usage. Proper insulation, sealing air leaks, and using energy-efficient heating and cooling systems can help reduce energy loss in this area.
- Appliances: Appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, and dryers can also be major energy users. Using energy-efficient appliances and turning off appliances when they’re not in use can help reduce energy loss.
- Lighting: Lighting accounts for a significant portion of a home’s energy usage. Using energy-efficient light bulbs such as LEDs can help reduce energy loss in this area.
- Electronics: Electronics that are left plugged in and on standby mode can continue to draw power even when they’re not in use. Unplugging electronics when they’re not in use can help reduce energy loss.
- Water heating: Water heating can account for a significant portion of a home’s energy usage. Using low-flow showerheads and insulating hot water pipes can help reduce energy loss in this area.
By identifying and addressing these sources of energy loss, you can help reduce your energy usage and lower your energy bills. Here are 8 ways you can save on energy around the home.