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Almost everyone has welcomed the new year with a plan to make positive changes in their life. So why not to start something which can bring positive change to the environment as well? A few small changes can make a big difference.

Here are 10 ways of saving energy at home:

1. Save energy by using LED light bulbs

Traditional domestic light sources consume an excessive amount of power. Even compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) consumes power compared to light emitting diode (LED) bulbs. LEDs are way more power efficient than CFLs and also have double the lifespan of CFLs. LEDs are a bit more expensive compared to CFLs but far exceed CFLs in longer-term financial and environmental benefits.

2. The kitchen can be a great place to look to save energy

It’s a myth that common living areas consume a greater percentage of electricity. Numerous surveys have shown that a considerable amount of energy is consumed in the kitchen. To save energy in the kitchen you can cut down on your use of frozen foods which take longer to cook, use lids on your pots and pans to save energy and use the microwave oppose to using a less efficient stove. You can also make sure the dishwasher is full before running it to save energy doing fewer loads.

3. Take a look at your roof

The primary purpose of the roof is to protect the house from all kinds of weather like rain, dust, and snow. However, your roof can also be a valuable asset in your savings if you properly insulate the roof. If your roof isn’t currently insulated, then get it done asap and check the R-value of the insulation to make sure it’s adequate for your region.

4. Take a look at your laundry

For some, laundry day is the most hectic day of the week. After all, washing clothes are not the ideal activity to be tasked with but doing by using cold water for washing clothes, can save on your energy bills. In some cases, using cold water can save over $100 in a year.

5. Using a programmable thermostat

A programmable thermostat is highly recommended when it comes to saving energy. A programmable thermostat has settings to reduce or turn off the heating (or cooling) when you are asleep or not present in the room. Approximately $150 can be saved annually when properly used.

6. Windows can be an energy saving medium

A lot of energy (12% – 25%) gets wasted because of inefficient windows. Single-Pane windows can be replaced by double-pane windows for immediate energy savings. If you are living in a warm climate, then you can reduce the effect of outer heat by using  ‘gas-filled with Low-E coatings” as it helps reflects the heat coming. And if you live in a cold region, then the windows with ‘low-E’ coatings help to reduce the heat expenses significantly.

7. Take a look at your doors

Doors can be used as a medium to save energy by simply making sure you close the doors when you leave rooms and the house. You can also check the seals around your doors to make sure it’s not letting an outside draft in.

8. Using caulk/sealant properly

Make sure you add caulk where your wall contacts the chimney, outside and inside. This calk can wear away over time and lead to cracks for heat and air to slip out.

9. A change in your bathing 

There are many ways to save water and energy like filling up your bath with just the amount of water you need (no need to fill to the top), or by installing a water-efficient water head. Studies show that taking a shower with a low-flow showerhead can save approximately $200 annually.

10. Alternative Energy

As you’ve just read, a lot the energy gets wasted that you end up paying for in the end. Why not generate your own electricity and pay nothing for using it? Solar energy is a new trend in the energy sector for a good reason. The efficiency of solar power for your own use (solar panels and its accessories) is more than 80% and is becoming more and more affordable to install and maintain.

Other Resource You Like To Read: 

Importance and Role of Energy Consultant

How can Energy Consultant save your Business Money

About Navigate Power

Navigate Power is a leading electricity and natural gas consulting firm, headquartered in Chicago, IL. Ranked no. 550 on the 2017 and no. 856 on the 2018 Inc. 5000 list as one of the fastest growing companies in the nation, Navigate Power continues to expand into new markets nationwide and currently manages over 30,000 commercial energy accounts and over one billion dollars in energy budgets.

Brian Cecola

Brian Cecola

As Navigate Power’s CEO, Brian Cecola drives new business and nurtures future partnerships. His leadership has spurred sustainable growth for the company over four years. With a decade of experience in small businesses and private ventures, he started his career on the Chicago Stock Exchange as a specialist. After nine successful years as a proprietary trader, he transitioned to Director of Sales at Best Energy.

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