Running a home can cost a significant sum throughout the year, especially if you have a big family. If your gas prices are rising or your electricity bill drains your income, you must find ways to lower your energy usage.
Fortunately, there are various changes you can make to your property to save hundreds of dollars throughout the years. Here are six home improvements that can lower your utility bills.
1. Replace Old Appliances
If you have had the same appliances for many decades, you’re likely overdue a brand-new model. A new washing machine, dishwasher, refrigerator, or coffee machine cannot only improve performance but can slash the cost of your annual utility bills.
Old appliances often use much more energy than necessary, which can damage your finances and planet Earth. Switching to more energy-efficient models will save you money in the long term and help you run a more environmentally friendly home.
Before buying a brand-new refrigerator or dryer, you must check the appliance has an Energy Star label. It proves an appliance is an energy-efficient option, and the label can even demonstrate how much money you can save each month.
2. Install the Right Window Shutters
Your property’s window treatments could determine its energy usage. For example, Sunburst Shutters provides customers with Polywood shutters, which are 1600% more energy efficient compared to aluminum blinds. They feature thermal protection and reduce heat transfer across a room, which can prevent you from powering up the HVAC unit. The right window shutters will allow you to enjoy a comfortable home throughout the seasons while decreasing your energy bills.
3. Insulate Your Property
Prevent energy loss by insulating your property, as it can prevent hot or cool air from escaping your home. As a result, you can enjoy a cool or warm property throughout the seasons, which will ensure the whole family feels relaxed and comfortable.
However, you must hire an expert to insulate your home, which includes your attic, basement, garage, and crawlspaces. This simple task could lower your utility bills, improve comfort in the home and take pressure off your finances.
4. Service an HVAC Unit Every Six Months
Many HVAC units are built to last for many years; however, a lack of maintenance can result in them losing their energy efficiency in time. If you have noticed your utility bills climbing, your HVAC system might be to blame. It is a wise idea to organize an HVAC service every six months, and you must repair any gaps or leaks in the ducts that could be increasing your energy usage. It’s a small home improvement task that could improve your cash flow.
5. Switch to LED Lighting
Do you use halogen lights in the home? If so, it’s time to switch to LED lighting, as halogen lighting uses five times more energy, which can add up to a huge sum throughout the year. Slash your energy bills by switching to more energy-efficient LED lights, as it will decrease your utility costs and last much longer than halogen light bulbs. It’s an affordable improvement that could make a big difference to your monthly electricity bill.
6. Install a Low-Flow Showerhead
Reduce your water usage by installing a low-flow showerhead in your bathroom. Pick a product with a flow rate below 2.5 gallons per minute and avoid conventional showerheads that use 5 gallons or more per minute. Also, don’t forget to repair any potential leaks from your showerhead or taps to avoid wasting water. You’ll save money on water throughout the month while helping to protect the planet.
7. Get the roof inspected
A roofing company to inspect your roof can be very helpful when it comes to keeping your home warm and utility bills low. When it comes to the roof, if any damage is caused, it can impact the structural integrity of the property.
Not only that but adverse weather conditions can end up causing some substantial damage that may cost a lot to fix. Having it checked over can save you a lot of hassle, time, and money in the future.
Read Also:
