Energy Conservation Archives - Maura Allard Realtor

Hot weeks like this can make you think about the energy conservation methods for your home. With fall right around the corner and winter right behind it, now is the perfect time to put a plan in place! Whether you’re motivated to protect the environment – or just to save on your utility bills – here are a few ways to reduce your energy consumption, starting with the easiest!

ADJUST YOUR BEHAVIOR.

Turn off lights and appliances when you are not using them.
Turn down your heat or air conditioner at night, and when you’re not at home.
Wash only full loads of dishes and clothes, and think about hang-drying or washing dishes by hand.
Wash clothes in cold water.
When raising or lowering the temperature, do so slowly.
Use a microwave or toaster oven instead of a conventional oven, when possible.
Clean the dryer lint filter regularly.
Use less hot water, or turn the thermostat on your water heater down.
Turn off the water heater when you’re going away for a few days.

Invest in energy conservation.

Use smart power strips that shut off the power to electronics when they are not being used. As much as 75% of the power used by electronics is consumed when they are switched off!
Purchase a low-flow showerhead, and insulate your water heater and pipes.
Replace your lightbulbs with CFLs or LEDs – they can use 25-80% less electricity and last up to 25x longer than traditional bulbs.
Install a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust heating and cool when you’re asleep or out of the house.
Weatherize your home by sealing air leaks around vents, windows, doors, and especially attics.
Consider installing solar panels at your home or buying local solar energy.
Insulate your home, including the attic, walls, floors, ducts, basement, and crawl spaces.
Purchase energy-efficient appliances and water heaters.
Install energy-efficient windows – this can save 10-25% of your heating bill! Low-e coatings can also help to reduce heat gain in the summer, as can blinds and screens.
Purchase an energy-efficient HVAC system.

Changes don’t have to be big or expensive to make a difference.

For more details, visit:

31 Ways to Save Energy in Your Home

and The Top 10 Ways to Save Energy.

If you’re looking to make energy-efficient changes to your home, reach out for my recommendations!

Have you thought about energy conservation methods for your home? Whether you’re motivated to protect the environment – or just save on your utility bills – here are a few ways to reduce your energy consumption, starting with the easiest!

Adjust your behavior.

Turn off lights and appliances when you are not using them.
Turn down your heat or air conditioner at night, and when you’re not at home.
Wash only full loads of dishes and clothes, and think about hang-drying or washing dishes by hand.
Wash clothes in cold water.
When raising or lowering the temperature, do so slowly.
Use a microwave or toaster oven instead of a conventional oven, when possible.
Clean the dryer lint filter regularly.
Use less hot water, or turn the thermostat on your water heater down.
Turn off the water heater when you’re going away for a few days.

Invest in energy conservation.

Use smart power strips that shut off the power to electronics when they are not being used. As much as 75% of the power used by electronics is consumed when they are switched off!
Purchase a low-flow showerhead, and insulate your water heater and pipes.
Replace your lightbulbs with CFLs or LEDs – they can use 25-80% less electricity and last up to 25x longer than traditional bulbs.
Install a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust heating and cool when you’re asleep or out of the house.
Weatherize your home by sealing air leaks around vents, windows, doors, and especially attics.
Insulate your home, including the attic, walls, floors, ducts, basement, and crawl spaces.
Purchase energy-efficient appliances and water heaters.
Install energy-efficient windows – this can save 10-25% of your heating bill! Low-e coatings can also help to reduce heat gain in the summer, as can blinds and screens.
Purchase an energy-efficient HVAC system.