7 Tips For An Energy-Efficient Home In 2024
As energy prices skyrocket, homeowners everywhere are looking for ways to save money. While we can’t control the prices of electricity, we can offer energy efficiency tips to help you save a little money in your pocket each month. Any little bit helps, right?
Here’s the guide that our team at Solar Bear Orlando came up with. Try these seven tips!
- Install a solar array
- Insulate windows and doors
- Switch to LEDs
- Unplug unused devices
- Install a smart thermostat
- Seal air leaks
- Choose energy-efficient appliances
Let’s explore each of these a little further!
#1. Install a Solar Array
Our favorite tip on the list is of course to install solar panels. In Florida, our homes receive ample sunshine throughout the day, so why not use that energy to your advantage?
Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity through the use of photovoltaics. Of course, factors like your location, the orientation of the panels, and shade can greatly impact the efficiency of your panels, but they are an eco-friendly energy source that can help you save substantially on your home energy costs.
Plus, with net metering, you can sell your excess power back to the grid, allowing you to reap even more benefits! You can’t beat that!
Read More > Top Benefits of Solar for Florida Homeowners
#2. Insulate Windows and Doors
Let’s say you are powering or at least supplementing your home’s heating and cooling with solar energy. If you have drafty doors and windows, your home will be significantly energy inefficient!
We recommend applying weather stripping to your windows and using insulation and gaskets wherever possible on your doors.
Also, if your budget allows, we always recommend installing energy-efficient windows.
#3. Switch To LEDs
You’ve likely heard that traditional incandescent light bulbs are not very efficient, and it’s true. They can use a great deal of electricity, get hot, and burn out quickly. The good news is that LED bulbs last much longer than their incandescent counterparts, and use just a quarter of the energy as well.
You may be saying, “But I like the warm glow from my traditional bulbs!” Well, don’t worry, you can get that same comforting hue with LEDs. Many are programmable and allow you to change the hue and intensity of the light in your home—all while saving on energy costs; nice!
#4. Unplug Unused Devices
Believe it or not, there are “energy vampires” that are sucking extra energy from around your house every day. Don’t believe us? Think about what you have plugged in day to day:
- Phone and computer chargers
- Coffee machines
- TVs
- Printers
- Small kitchen appliances
These small devices might seem innocent, but they draw electricity at all hours of the day and night and can increase your energy bill by 10%. Yikes!
We get that unplugging all of these devices can be a pain, especially if they are plugged in behind the couch, so we recommend using a power strip, which will allow you to switch off all the devices at once.
#5. Install a Smart Thermostat
We love the convenience of smart thermostats, plus they have amazing energy-saving potential. Modern smart thermostats are easily programmable and can adapt to your family’s routine.
Using a smart thermostat can cut your home’s energy usage by up to 15%!
#6. Seal Air Leaks
Air leaks, whether from ductwork, recessed lighting, doors, windows, or outlets can become a big deal when you add them up. We recommend using caulk to seal any gaps, eliminating drafts, and helping you conserve energy throughout your space.
#7. Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances
Even if you install solar panels, if you have outdated appliances, the savings you will reap from your array will be diminished. Consider investing in “Energy Star” appliances if your budget allows.
These energy-efficient appliances have been tested to ensure that they consume less energy than their older counterparts.
Embrace Energy Efficiency
Ready to foster greater energy efficiency throughout your home? You’ve come to the right place! We can install a right-sized solar system that will produce clean energy while the Florida sun is shining, plus, we offer spray foam insulation services that will further enhance your home’s energy efficiency.
Ready to get started? Contact our team at Solar Bear Orlando for a quote today at (727) 471-7442!
