Ways to Cut Energy Costs this Year

Improving the energy efficiency of your home not only improves your budget, but it can also reduce any negative effects that your home might have on the environment.  When you buy one of our homes, you are purchasing an ENERGY STAR certified home.  This means you are already going to be saving money, and your home was built with strict energy saving guidelines.  “A new home that has earned the ENERGY STAR label has undergone a process of inspections, testing, and verification to meet strict requirements set by the US EPA. ENERGY STAR certified homes use significantly less energy than typical new homes and apartments while delivering better comfort, quality, and durability,” ENERGY STAR.

Even though you might be living in an ENERGY STAR certified home, there are still several ways that you can cut energy costs this year.

1.  Keep caulking around windows and doors filled.  It is important to check windows and doors twice a year to make sure there are no spots where you might be letting cool or warm air out.
2. Always replace air filters.  You can now buy air filters that last several months, but once you start to see signs of dust collecting on the outside of your vents, it’s time for a change.
3.  Additional landscaping can help you save!  Planting trees around your home can add extra shade, keeping your home cool.
4. LED bulbs.  If you live in an older home, you might want to think about switching out your old bulbs for more efficient LED bulbs.  Yes they are more expensive up front, but they will last for years and save you in the long run!
5. Wash only full loads of dishes or clothes.  Instead of washing clothes everyday, wait until you have enough to fill the wash.
6. Lower your water heater thermostat.  Water heaters are the 2nd highest source of energy use in the home.
7. ENERGY STAR.  Your home is ENERGY STAR efficient, so why not get a washing machine that is as well.
8. New windows.  The main thing that always needs to replaced in an older home is the windows.  Our new homes use windows that are Low E-Glass meaning special coatings reflect infrared light, keeping heat inside in the winter and out in the summer.  They also reflect damaging ultraviolet light, which helps protect furniture from fading.