You probably won’t be shocked to learn American households rack up more than $130 billion dollars each year on energy waste. This is an astronomically high number considering a number of foreign countries operate on smaller budgets than what we waste in energy. Most homeowners operate on a budget, below are five cost effective ways to save money and boost your homes energy efficiency.
1. If you home was built after 1982, ceiling insulation was required and should be present in the home. If your home is pre 1982, chances are there is no insulation installed in the ceiling. Installing R-19 insulation will keep warm air from entering the home thus reducing your cooling costs. Most home supply stores sell insulation by the roll and, if you are not opposed to a little hard work, insulation is easy to install. The key to installing insulation is doing the project in phases, covering exposed skin, and staying hydrated as it can get very warm in attics.
2. As your appliances break down, replace them with energy efficient appliances. The cost may be a touch higher than non-energy efficient appliances, but purchasing them while on sale will negate most of the cost differences.
3. In Miami we typically are concerned with letting air conditioned air escape from the home. Check window seals by running a lit candle around the window edges to see if there are any drafts which may be letting air escape. If you see the flame moving via a draft wind, replace caulking and purchase and install new seal strips.
4. If you really want a no-cost way of saving energy, though slightly inconvenient, unplug appliances from the wall after each use. Most appliances, even though turned off, still consume energy in their dormant state. Unplugging so called ‘vampire’ appliances can save you big over time.
5. Lastly, and if you have taken the above steps and are still paying high energy costs, consider calling an electrician in the Miami area. Having a Miami electrician come to your home to conduct a thorough energy inspection will save you money in the long run. Not only will the Cutler Bay electrician provide specific tips for your home, but can also quote you repair and upgrade costs if needed.
It is hard to wrap our heads around $130 billion dollars. In perspective, the Gulf Oil Spill cost $40 billion to clean up. Staying vigilant with these home energy saving tips can save you a substantial amount of money over time.