Using renewable energy in your home will not only save you money, it will also help the environment. Many non-renewable sources of energy – such as coal, oil and gas – produce harmful air pollution and greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change.
Wind and solar power are two renewable resources that can be used in your home to reduce your electric bills.
1. Install Energy-Efficient Appliances
Energy-efficient appliances are a great way to make your home more eco-friendly. They cost a little more than regular appliances, but the savings will add up over time.
When choosing appliances, look for models that have the Energy Star label. These products are tested and rated by the EPA and meet the highest energy efficiency standards.
Energy-efficient appliances include laundry machines, dishwashers, water heaters and air conditioners. They use less energy and are more durable than traditional versions.
2. Insulate Your Home
Home insulation is one of the most important ways to improve your energy efficiency and save on heating and cooling costs. Properly insulating your home can save you up to 10% on your bills, as well as helping to reduce your carbon footprint.
Most homes can benefit from adding some form of insulation. This can include blown in insulation between the studs or other wall cavities in your attic, walls, or under your floor.
3. Install Solar Panels
Solar panels are one of the most efficient ways to generate renewable energy in your home. They produce electricity during the day and store it in batteries to be used at night.
Installing solar panels is not an easy task, and it requires a lot of planning before your home can start producing clean energy.
The installation process starts with the installation contractor taking all of your meter readings and calculating the amount of power you currently use. This information will help the solar company calculate how much energy your solar panels need to produce in order to meet your needs.
4. Install Energy-Efficient Windows
One of the most effective ways to make your home more energy-efficient is by installing new windows. Replacing old windows with ENERGY STAR certified windows can lower your household energy bills by an average of 12% nationwide.
The best windows have multiple planes of glass, a low-e coating and warm-edge spacers that help prevent heat from leaving your home. They are also filled with insulating gas.
These features are backed by an energy performance label from the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC), which measures a window’s overall efficiency and provides a reliable way to compare products side-by-side. You’ll also want to look for a low U-Factor and a Solar Heat Gain Coefficient.
5. Install Energy-Efficient Doors
Installing energy-efficient doors is a great way to make your home more environmentally friendly and improve your comfort. They keep your home warm during winter and cool during summer, which could save you a significant amount of money on your monthly energy bills.
Door insulation, core materials, and glass options all play a role in the energy efficiency of your door. Look for a door with a high R-value and low air leakage rates.
6. Install Energy-Efficient Lighting
LEDs (light-emitting diodes) are a great choice for energy-efficient lighting. They use about 90 percent less energy than older bulbs, and they last up to 25 times longer.
They can be installed in a variety of fixtures, including sconces and pendants, as well as ceiling-mount lights. They also have a wide range of color temperatures.
They are a good choice for homes that have recessed lighting, as they save space and can be controlled with timers. They’re also a good choice for bathrooms and kitchens, where they can be used to illuminate work surfaces.
7. Install Energy-Efficient Appliances
Investing in energy-efficient appliances is one of the most effective ways to make your home more efficient. These devices use about 9% to 50% less power than standard appliances, which means they can save you money on utility bills and help reduce your impact on the environment.
Energy Star-certified appliances are the best ones to go for, as they meet energy efficiency standards set by the EPA. They cost more upfront, but their savings will quickly pay for themselves and save you money on your electricity bill.