Electricity costs keep getting higher especially when you purchase and use more appliances. There are ways where we can cut down on our bills and at the same time make our habits at home eco-friendly. Here are some tips to get you started on achieving a green and energy efficient home.
Reducing Energy Consumption
Adjusting Thermostat Settings
If you want to know how to make home more energy efficient, tweaking your thermostat settings to 10 to 15 degrees during the day can help save 5 to 15 % energy annually.
Servicing HVAC System
Hire a local contractor to check your heating and cooling system. Wires and coils should be cleaned regularly and checked for faulty wiring. If your HVAC unit is outdated, you can purchase a new one with the help of a credit union.
Installing CFLs, LED, and Halogen Bulbs
Incandescent lightbulbs are slowly being phased out, especially those that consume more than 40 watts. CFLs, LED, and halogen bulbs are cheaper alternatives and are longer lasting.
Unplugging Chargers
Energy.gov states that unused cellphone and battery chargers normally consume 0.26 watts. The figure may be small but the collective energy being wasted if everyone does this is huge.
Installing a Storm Door
A storm door is a protective home layer that usually costs $75 and can last from 25 to 50 years. The material used in its protective coating can cut energy consumption down to 50%.
Buying EPA-approved Appliances
Buying products that meet the specifications for efficient energy mandated by the EPA is one way on how to make your home more energy efficient.
Using Laptops
Laptops are often expensive but they are handy and use less energy as compared to desktop computers.
Switching to Solar Energy
Installation of solar panels on your roof is only costly at first. Since fossil fuel usage is reduced later on, you may even qualify for tax incentives given annually.

Other Energy-Saving and Eco-Friendly Practices
Auditing Energy Consumption
You can hire a professional energy auditor to evaluate energy usage in your home by doing a home inspection. You may ask yourself afterwards, should I get a personal loan for home improvements to improve my property’s energy efficiency? You definitely can.
Insulating Attics
Home insulation is a great way on how to make home more energy efficient, as you get air leaks sealed. The usual cost of insulating attics reaches $1356 on average, as stated by HomeAdvisor.
Weather-Stripping Windows
Caulking window cracks reduces the pressure on your HVAC system. Check the frames and use shrink films to seal cracks and gaps.
Layering Clothes and Blankets
Space heaters are convenient in winter but they consume about 1,500 watts. To help create an energy efficient home, use layers of clothing, and tuck yourself under thick and warm blankets.
Reducing Water Consumption
Knowing how to make your home more energy efficient also includes saving water. Always run a full load of laundry, use low-flow showerheads, and shower instead of taking the usual full bath.

Using Room-Temperature Water
Treehugger says that 90% of energy goes to heating water when hot water is selected in washing machines. Try using cool, warm, or room-temperature water instead.
Decomposing Organic Waste
Creating a compost pile in your backyard significantly reduces the amount of organic waste you produce. It also serves as a good source of fertilizer and can be useful if you’re into home gardening.
More Stories
Is It Smart To Sell Your House In A Seller’s Market?
Why Are OEM Parts So Expensive?
Is a 1031 Exchange a Good Idea?