Energy efficiency reduces our need for fossil fuels, saving money and helping the environment at once. Furthermore, energy efficiency lessens exposure to sudden energy price shocks that disproportionately impact low-income households.
Make simple energy-saving upgrades to your home to cut electricity costs. Opt for appliances and electronics that use less power, install dimmers switches, and reduce “vampire loads” with advanced power strips.
Energy-efficient appliances
Energy-efficient appliances can help you save money on utility bills while simultaneously mitigating climate change emissions. Many utilities, governments and manufacturers offer various programs to promote energy efficiency in homes; when buying a refrigerator, washing machine or dishwasher look for an ENERGY STAR label to make sure the appliance meets stringent efficiency standards.
Adjusting your lifestyle is another effective way to boost energy efficiency. For instance, switch off lights when leaving rooms, install ceiling fans instead of air conditioners, and install a water heater with an adjustable thermostat. Also make sure you unplug devices you don’t use often or place them on a power strip with an on/off switch for increased energy savings.
Utilizing energy-efficient appliances and making small lifestyle changes can have a dramatic impact on your electricity consumption. You’ll find an assortment of energy efficient products on the ENERGY STAR website, including washers and dryers as well as refrigerators/freezers/furnaces and heat pumps.
Energy-efficient lighting
Lighting accounts for much of the energy consumption in commercial buildings, making upgrading to energy-efficient bulbs one of the easiest and cost-effective ways to cut energy use. Not only can energy efficient bulbs save money by using less electricity but they last longer too – not to mention having reduced environmental impacts since they don’t contain toxic substances like mercury!
LED (light-emitting diode) light bulbs have become one of the most sought-after products available today, using up to 75% less electricity and lasting 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. LED bulbs come in various shapes and sizes to meet different needs, while smart lighting control systems can further increase efficiency.
Halogen bulbs, which are more efficient than incandescent lights, and fluorescent lighting of various types are other options to consider. Fluorescent lights contain small quantities of gas within a tube that’s charged by electricity until its luminosity lights up the room; sensors or timers allow you to set these lamps so they only turn on when required.
Energy-efficient windows
Energy-efficient windows are one of the most cost-effective upgrades a homeowner can make to increase energy efficiency, and can significantly cut cooling costs during summer heat waves while keeping indoor temperatures stable in winter months. Furthermore, energy-efficient windows reduce UV rays which fade furniture and carpeting as well as harmful UV radiation exposure.
ENERGY STAR-qualified windows, doors and skylights save on average 13%* of energy costs when compared with non-certified products. Selecting energy efficient options tailored specifically to your region like Low-E glass windows with insulated frames made from vinyl wood or fiberglass will maximize energy savings and help maximize savings.
Double and triple pane windows can provide superior energy-efficiency compared to single pane windows, as they offer greater insulation. Aim for high R-values with an inert gas such as argon between panes to help minimize heat loss, as well as windows with low U-factors and SHGC values for optimal performance in cold climates. Compare ratings from National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) when searching for your window of choice.
Energy-efficient doors
Most people don’t give much thought to doors, yet these everyday gateways play a crucial role in energy efficiency. Drafty or poorly insulated doors allow heat to leak in and out of homes, leading to increased HVAC costs and increasing HVAC bills. Upgrading to energy-efficient doors is one easy way to reduce these expenses.
When shopping for energy-efficient doors, look for those bearing the ENERGY STAR label. This label provides details regarding R-Value, U-Factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). R-Value describes materials’ ability to resist heat flow; U-Factor measures its ability to insulate.
SHGC measures how much sunlight enters through a door, and selecting one with a lower SHGC value in climate zones that require cooling is of particular importance. Other important features to keep in mind include air leakage rate and visible transmittance; frame material also plays an integral part, as it affects its resistance to temperature changes; vinyl, fiberglass and thermally broken aluminum frames are excellent energy-saving choices.