How Can Homeowners Save Energy and Be More Green?

Improving the efficiency of your home isn’t only going to reduce your carbon footprint, but it will also cut back on your energy bills. While some homeowners opt for major upgrades such as solar panels and geothermal water heating systems, you might be able to save thousands every year with a handful of smaller renovations. Here is a quick look at five easy ways you can save energy and help the environment. Put an End to Phantom Loads A phantom load takes place when an electronic device continues to draw power even when it is not being used or has been turned off. Practically any device imaginable can draw a phantom load including computers, smartphone chargers, coffee makers, and TVs. One convenient way to put an end to phantom loads is to plug all of your devices into power strips and then unplug those strips at night or whenever you leave the house. Improve the Insulation Improving a home's insulation is often seen as one of the best investments a family can make. In addition to adding traditional insulation, you should also consider investing in high-efficiency siding that will reflect sunlight and prevent heat transfer. Professionals, such as those at Allstate Gutter & Siding, know how crucial this can be in the summer months. If you are still having trouble keeping your home at a consistent temperature after making those changes, then you might have small cracks or holes that must be sealed with caulking. Clean and Open Your Vents Many homeowners make the mistake of closing their vents to prevent air from escaping, but that can actually increase your energy bills. When a vent is closed, it will create more pressure in the ducts. That backpressure will put more stress on your furnace and air conditioner and make it extremely difficult to keep your home at the right temperature. Paint Your Roof Painting your roof could potentially lower your energy bills, lengthen the lifespan of the roof, and increase the value of your home. Many traditional roofs actually absorb and trap heat, and that will have an impact on the temperature inside your house. Painting the roof white or replacing it with modern tiles will allow it to reflect the sunlight instead of absorb it. Insulate the Pipes Quite a bit of heat transfer takes place in your plumbing system between the water heater and faucets. Insulating the pipes is a cheap and easy way to limit the heat transfer so that you can turn your water heater down by a few degrees. Home improvement stores often sell pipe insulation kits that take just minutes to install. Reducing your energy consumption doesn’t always require expensive gadgets and major lifestyle changes. These five simple tips should help you lower energy bills and create a more efficient home.