There are so many steps you can take as a homeowner to reduce energy losses and improve the efficiency of your home. From adjusting the thermostat to getting replacement windows in Seal Beach, CA, here are just a few ideas to get you started:
- Adjust the Thermostat
It may seem like a small thing, but using a programmable thermostat can save you a huge amount of money. There is no reason to heat or cool your home to a comfortable level when you are not around. Don’t turn it off completely. Instead, you should adjust the thermostat to a few degrees lower or higher while you are away. This will cut down on the energy expenses as well as prolong the life of your HVAC system.
- Maintain Your HVAC System
Another way to save money is to make sure your heating and cooling are running as efficiently as possible. You should check the air filters every month to make sure they are not clogged. You should also schedule a routine maintenance on your system once a year. This will keep you ahead of most major problems and breakdowns, and keep the system running smoothly.
- Replace Incandescent Lightbulbs
Electricity to run a lightbulb costs more than you might think. Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) save you three-quarters of the energy used by incandescent bulbs.
- Unplug Unused Chargers
With laptops, cell phones, and tablets readily available you probably have chargers plugged in all around your home. Unfortunately, these devices are energy vampires. Even when they are not connected to a device these cables still draw power from the outlets. Best to unplug them every time they are not in use.
- Wash on Cold and Air Dry
Washing and drying is another major energy draw. In fact, 90 percent of the energy used by your clothes washer is used to heat the water. So where possible you want to wash with cold water. You also want to avoid running half loads. Just wait until it is a full load so you can wash more clothes at once. Making this a habit will save a significant amount of money.
- Seal the Windows and Doors
The fenestrations, or openings in your home account for the most heat transfer. So check around your windows and doors for signs of air leaks. And if you notice a draft try sealing off the gap with weather stripping or caulk. These simple tasks can cut down on expensive energy losses.
- Install a Storm Door
Even if you have a decent front or back door, adding a storm door gives you extra protection year round.
- Upgrade or Replace Windows
With older windows, there is only so much weather stripping and caulk can do. Over time windows break down and become less efficient. So if your windows are more than 20 years old it is time to start giving replacement windows some serious consideration.
Looking to add a storm door or replacement windows in Seal Beach, CA? At Seaport Windows and Doors, our goal is complete fulfillment. Contact us at (714) 220-3939 or 4201 Katella Ave., Los Alamitos, CA 90720.
