Moving into your home is an exciting time, and you shouldn’t
allow higher than expected electricity bills to dampen your spirits. Every day,
households around the world waste large amounts of energy. If your home uses
more energy than it needs to, you are the one that is paying the price.
Luckily, there are many ways to make sure your home is running as efficiently
as possible. Save yourself from 'utility shock' by taking these seven steps.
Make Energy
Efficiency Your Electric Company's Business
When you first move into your home, have your appliances
inspected by an authorized technician. You could call your appliance's
manufacturer or the electric company to find someone to inspect your
appliances. If you do find yourself on the phone with the electric company, ask
them if they have peak and off-peak hours. Often, there are times throughout
the day where usage is at a premium, and the cost is higher than it would be at
other times. You should also ask if they have any tips or resources pertaining
to your home's electrical usage. Electrical companies will often send you
literature or an energy saving kit that can help make your home run more energy
efficiently.
Get Fresh Furnace
Filters And Examine Your Central Air System
When you move into a new home, it’s difficult to know what
kind of upkeep the previous owners performed on the furnace. Upon moving into
your new home, you should have the filter on your furnace changed and your
ducts examined and cleaned. Do the same for any central cooling systems in the
home. This way you'll feel confident that they are operating properly and
producing the best air quality possible.
Wrap And Warm Your
Hot Water Tank
The hot water tank is another area where you can save a
significant amount of money. Set your hot water tank to a warm setting, instead
of a hot one (this makes little difference in the water temperature at your
tap, but it will save you money). You could also purchase an insulating cover
for the tank, and wrap the hot water pipes in the home. Insulation for your hot
water tank and pipes is a cost-effective solution, and you can find plastic or
foam pipe insulators at your local hardware store.
Evaluate The
Situation From Windows To Insulation
Check the windows and doors of the home to make sure they
are properly insulated. Fresh weather stripping and caulking will keep drafts
out in the winter, and cool air in during the summer. Another way to regulate your
home's temperature is to replace the insulation in your attic. You could also
install an attic fan to improve airflow.
A Bright Energy
Saving Idea
Replace incandescent light bulbs with fluorescent bulbs. The
cost is only slightly higher, and fluorescent bulbs last over five times as
long as incandescent bulbs. Fluorescent bulbs give off a softer light, but are
bright enough to light your home and will save a significant amount of
electricity.
Get Your Windows
Working With The Weather
Replace thin curtains with heavier weight window coverings.
You can use the sunlight when you need it, and block it out when you don't.
Heavy drapes are also great at keeping warm and cool air in your home. Having
high quality window treatments may mean you use your thermostat and light
switches less.
Properly Power Down
Your Electronics
A surprising amount of the energy our electronics use is
wasted while devices are powered down. Electronics that are off but are still
plugged directly into an outlet do indeed burn energy. When you set up the
electronics in your home, use power strips where you can. Flicking the bar off
when electronics are not needed will lead to savings on your electric bill.
Once you have taken these steps, you can feel good knowing
you are saving money and being environmentally responsible. Energy efficient
handy work and home improvements also qualify for significant tax credits. Make
sure you keep your receipts and invoices, as they could mean cash back in your
pocket come tax season. If you decide to take your savings and move up and out,
contact a local real estate professional for assistance in finding the perfect
place to call home.
Interested in selling your Charleston area
home? Visit: www.jeffcookrealestate.com
-Jeff Cook
Jeff Cook Real Estate
Charleston, SC
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