As we continue to spend more time at home in these uncertain times, our home energy consumption has increased significantly. With children and other family members at home, it’s natural to worry about the potential spike in utility bills. To help you decrease your energy use and save money, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of energy-saving tips that are both informative and easy to implement.

Harness the power of natural light

With longer daylight hours, it’s the perfect time to take advantage of the sun’s free and abundant light. Open your blinds and curtains to allow natural light to flood your living spaces, reducing the need to switch on artificial lights. Additionally, remind your family members to turn off lights when they’re not in use to conserve energy.

Make the switch to LED lighting

LED lights consume significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, making them an excellent choice for energy-conscious homeowners. Besides reducing energy costs, LED bulbs also have a longer lifespan, which translates to additional savings over time.

Optimize your water heater usage

Water heaters are among the most significant energy consumers in any household. To optimize your water heater’s efficiency, set the temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, which is the ideal balance between comfort and energy conservation. If you have a hybrid water heater, consider using the heat pump mode for even greater energy savings. Encourage your family to take shorter showers to minimize energy and water consumption.

Enhance dishwasher efficiency

To reduce energy usage when running your dishwasher, scrape dishes clean before loading them, lower the water temperature and utilize energy-saving settings or eco-cycle options. By optimizing your dishwasher usage, you can help save both water and energy.

Adopt energy-smart cooking practices

Choose the right-sized cookware for your burners and use energy-efficient appliances like microwaves or toaster ovens instead of conventional ovens when possible. Regular cleaning and maintenance of your kitchen appliances can also contribute to lower energy consumption.

Embrace air-drying your clothes

Reduce your reliance on energy-consuming dryers by air-drying clothes outdoors on a laundry line or using a clothes rack indoors. If air-drying isn’t feasible, ensure that your dryer’s filter is clean and run consecutive loads to capitalize on residual heat.

Upgrade to a smart thermostat

A smart thermostat can help you control your heating and cooling costs more effectively. By setting customized schedules, you can save up to 15% on cooling costs and 10% on heating costs, resulting in significant energy savings.

Invest in home insulation

Proper home insulation is one of the most effective ways to reduce ongoing energy costs throughout the year. In the summer months, adequate insulation prevents cool air from escaping, conserving energy and reducing the strain on your air conditioning system. In the winter months, insulation provides the opposite effect, keeping heat trapped inside your home.

Encourage Alternative Entertainment Activities

With many of us spending more time with electronics, it’s crucial to be mindful of daily screen time and set limits to mitigate the impact on our energy usage. Engage in alternative activities like reading, playing board games, crafting or having a family cooking night to conserve energy and create lasting memories.

Consult with Energy Efficiency Experts

For the best results in home energy efficiency, rely on industry professionals like Valiant Energy Solutions. Our team can provide a free evaluation on upgrading your water heater, improving home insulation or installing a smart thermostat. Reach out to us to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward a more energy-efficient and cost-effective home.

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