Want to make your home more energy efficient, but don’t know where to start? Take these five easy steps I watched in a You Tube video to make you and your wallet feel better.
Measure sources of energy loss frequently
Measure your energy output every so often. We pay hefty electricity bills largely because we do not track sources of energy loss.
If you use trackers to check how much energy your refrigerator is consuming or your Blu Ray player is wasting, you can get a grip on energy bills.
Choose light fixtures carefully
Incandescent bulbs dissipate lot of heat while emitting light. This wastage of energy can be curbed and altogether removed by using LED bulbs.
In my opinion (and also successfully argued by the video), dimmer is a great example of energy efficient lighting. It can save a lot of energy because its intensity can be altered based on the occupancy level.
Are your appliances sucking energy?
There are appliances which suck energy; these ‘energy vampires’ need to be cast away. Oftentimes, our appliances (with below par energy ratings) drain electricity even when they are on a standby.
The situation can be curbed via power strips to a large extent. I also vouch for the new kid on the block- Power track. It ably reduces point overloads and adds to your wallet.
Optimise energy usage through thermostats
The video lays emphasis on programmable thermostats. What would I have done without this one instrument? Its ability to optimise energy settings based on temperature and occupancy- whoosh!
Water conservation is a prerequisite
The fifth step is simple- conserve water. Okay, let me tell you something here. Would you believe that hot water running for 5 minutes can use as much energy as a 100 Watt incandescent bulb running for 14 hours? So you get it- conserve water.
You can take a look at the video below:
Great steps those. I have myself been a culprit in the past when it comes to wasting water while waiting for the tap to pour hot water. Now I dare say I am a lot more conscientious in my approach.
Motion detectors are an able ally
Those who use motion detectors at homes can also save a lot of energy by optimising airflow and light intensity in accordance to occupancy level.
Homes using superior energy upgrades fetch higher selling price
Tenants and investors both look for homes which are placed on the right side of energy efficiency. Renovations which accord importance to energy upgrades can help in selling or renting out homes at higher stickers. Food for thought!
How many of the above have you taken care of? Is there a special tip you would like to share with us?
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