Everyday we hear more and more about how the Earth is suffering from energy crises, deforestation, polluted water and much more. While it may seem like there is little you can do to help alleviate some of these problems, there are actually a lot of areas in your life where you could make small but meaningful changes that will make the world a healthier, cleaner place. In fact, most of these changes can start right in your very own home. So to help you see how easy it can be to have a positive impact on the environment, here are three ways you can make your home more energy efficient.
Start with Solid Doors
Having an energy efficient home is all about making the greatest use of the least amount of energy. Think about what in your home requires the most energy. For many families, this is their heating and cooling systems. So what can you do to ensure you’re using your heating and cooling system sparingly and making the most of the energy you are using?
To start with, Luke Mullins, a contributor to U.S. News and World Report, suggests replacing any hollow doors you have in your home with solid doors. Hollow doors don’t do much good for keeping the warm air inside in the winter or the cool air inside in the summer. The energy you spend heating and cooling is wasted once the air leaves through the hollow door. By but installing solid doors, the air won’t infiltrate it as well and will help you keep your home the exact temperature you want without having to use extra energy.
Making the Most of Windows
Another reason your heating and cooling system could be working in overdrive is due to your windows. Just like with doors, if your windows aren’t made in a way to keep your home’s temperature consistent, you could be using a lot more energy than you want to and be sending half of it outside. If you have noticed that your windows are old or aren’t sealed properly anymore, Harvey M. Sachs, a contributor to GreenHomeGuide.com, recommends replacing your current windows with energy efficient windows. Energy efficient windows not only help with insulation, but they also will help you keep your energy bills down, too.
Be Smart With Appliances
Appliances are another category of items that use a lot of energy in your home. But by making a few strategic choices, you could save a lot of energy through the use of your appliances. Rinkesh, a contributor to Conserve-Energy-Future.com, advises homeowners to purchase energy efficient appliances when furnishing their home. These appliances are made to use less energy than their counterparts. Also, you could change some of your habits to use your appliances less, like washing dishes or clothes at certain times of the day and unplugging things when they’re not in use.
Creating an energy efficient home is a great way to contribute to a healthier world and a happier society. Use the tips mentioned above to pick up a few ways you and your family can start this journey today.
