Moving into a new home is a great opportunity to set good energy habits from the start. Some changes cost very little; others require a bit of upfront investment that pays back over time. Here are ten worth considering.
1. Switch to LED Bulbs
If the home still has incandescent or older CFL bulbs, swap them for LEDs. LED bulbs use a fraction of the energy and last far longer. It's one of the cheapest, highest-return upgrades you can make.
2. Install a Programmable or Smart Thermostat
Heating and cooling account for a large share of most home energy bills. A programmable thermostat lets you automatically dial back the temperature when you're away or asleep. Smart thermostats learn your patterns and make adjustments without you thinking about it.
3. Seal Air Leaks
Drafts around windows, doors, and utility penetrations let conditioned air escape and outside air in. Weatherstripping and caulk are inexpensive fixes that make a real difference, especially in older homes.
4. Check Your Insulation
Inadequate insulation in the attic is one of the most common sources of energy loss in homes. If yours is thin or uneven, adding more is a high-impact improvement that reduces both heating and cooling loads.
5. Service the HVAC System
A well-maintained heating and cooling system runs more efficiently. Change the filter regularly (typically every one to three months depending on the filter type and household), and schedule annual professional service to keep the system in good shape.
6. Unplug Devices When Not in Use
Many electronics draw a small but constant amount of power even when switched off. Using a power strip makes it easy to cut power to a cluster of devices — gaming consoles, TVs, chargers — with a single switch.
7. Use Natural Light Strategically
During daylight hours, open blinds on south- and east-facing windows to let light in without turning on overhead lights. In summer, closing shades on west-facing windows in the afternoon reduces heat gain and lightens the load on your air conditioner.
8. Run Appliances Efficiently
Wash clothes in cold water when possible — modern detergents work well in it. Run the dishwasher only when full. Let dishes air dry instead of using the heated dry cycle. These habits add up.
9. Add Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans don't cool the air — they create a wind-chill effect that makes you feel cooler. In summer, run them counterclockwise on high. In winter, switch direction to clockwise on low to gently push warm air down from the ceiling. This lets you adjust the thermostat a few degrees in either direction without sacrificing comfort.
10. Consider an Energy Audit
Many utility companies offer free or low-cost home energy audits. A professional can identify where your home is losing energy and prioritize improvements by impact. It's a practical starting point before you spend money on upgrades.
If you're thinking about financing energy improvements in your home, get in touch with First Look Home Loans — we can walk you through options that might fit.
