10 Ways to Improve Energy Efficiency in Your Home This Year

The new year is often a time of reflection and introspection on how we can improve ourselves. Why not take those same thoughts and apply them to your home? With energy costs on the rise and growing concerns about our planet’s health, finding ways to save energy at home should have a spot on your New Year’s resolution list. Making your home more efficient can lower your utility bills, and it’s also a simple way to reduce your environmental footprint. The good news? Small changes can lead to big savings for both your wallet and the planet! Here are 10 ways you can help improve your home’s energy efficiency this year.

1. Seal Air Leaks Around Your Home

Air leaks in your home can be a big problem when it comes to energy efficiency, and sealing them will keep warm or cool air from escaping, releasing part of the burden on your HVAC system. 

• Inspect all windows, doors, attic hatches, and other areas around your home prone to air leaks. 
• If you find an area that is leaking, seal using weatherstripping, caulk, or expanding foam.

2. Change Your Air Filters

It is important to regularly change the filters on your HVAC system for a number of reasons, one being energy efficiency. If your system has to push air through a dirty and or clogged air vent, this places an unnecessary burden on your system forcing it to work harder. 

• Check your owner’s manual for how frequently the air filters need to be changed. Many require 1-3 months, while some last 6-9 months. 
• Be sure you are using the right filter for your system. 

3. Schedule a Professional Air Duct Cleaning

Much like a dirty air filter, clogged ductwork can also put an added burden on your HVAC system and waste energy. 

• Ideally, your ducts should be cleaned once per year. If it’s been that (or longer) schedule a professional cleaning today. 
• In addition to helping to improve energy efficiency, this service can also improve the indoor air quality of your home by reducing dust and other allergens in your home. 

4. Upgrade to a Programmable or Smart Thermostat

Programmable and smart thermostats are another good way to cut energy costs. By programming your thermostat according to your schedule (like when you are at work, sleeping, etc.), you can prevent your HVAC system from working hard when it’s not needed. 

• During winter, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat at 68-70 degrees (Fahrenheit) and lowering it while you are asleep or away from home. 
• Always consult your heating and cooling contractor should you be considering upgrading your thermostat. 

5. Maintain your HVAC System

In addition to thermostats, air filters, and ductwork, to help keep your HVAC system running efficiently, it’s important to get regular tune-ups. 

• Contact your local HVAC professional for a furnace and/or air conditioner tune up annually. Depending on the time of year and the requirements of your system, these tune-ups can be done at the same time. 
• Not only will this help keep your system running more efficiently, but it can also help prevent costly repairs. 

6. Insulate Your Home Properly

Proper insulation can help keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. 

• Check your attic, walls, and crawl spaces for adequate insulation. 
• Attic insulation is considered the most important as significant heat loss can occur through the roof. 

7. Upgrade to Energy Efficient Appliances

Replacing old, outdated appliances requires an investment in the short term but will pay off in the long run. 

• When looking to replace appliances for better energy efficiency, focus on major energy users like refrigerators, washers, dryers, and dishwashers. 
• Look for models with the Energy Star label. 

8. Use Energy Efficient Lighting

Another source of major energy usage for homeowners is the lighting in the home because, let’s face it, no matter how many times you tell your kids to turn off the lights, they’ll still forget. Updating to energy efficient lighting can help curtail this. 

• LED bulbs use significantly less energy than their incandescent counterparts. 
• An added benefit is their longevity. LED bulbs can last up to 30 times longer than an incandescent bulb.

9. Clean Your Dryer Vent

Much like dirty ducts, a clogged dryer vent can reduce the efficiency of your appliance and increase energy consumption. 

• Your dryer vent should be professionally cleaned annually for optimal performance. 
• The lint buildup in your dryer vent is also a major fire hazard. Having your dryer vents adequately cleaned regularly can also reduce this hazard. 
• Also, be sure to clean the lint trap of your dryer after every use. 
• Schedule your annual Dryer Vent Cleaning with local DUCTZ office: https://www.ductz.com/services/dryer-vent-cleaning-services/  

10. Reduce Phantom Energy Use

Phantom energy is electricity consumed by electronics that are plugged in but on standby, and this can waste more energy than you might think. 

• Common culprits of phantom energy usage include phone chargers, TVs, gaming consoles, and computers. 
• Unplug these devices when not in use. To make this easier, use a power strip to easily cut power to multiple phantom energy devices at once. 

Improving your home’s energy efficiency doesn’t have to be overwhelming—small, intentional changes can make a significant impact. By implementing even a few of these strategies, you can reduce your energy costs, ease the burden on your HVAC system, and contribute to a healthier planet. Ready to take the first step? Click here for a downloadable checklist! 

At DUCTZ, we’re here to help you check those energy-saving goals off your list with services like professional air duct and dryer vent cleaning. Together, we can create a more efficient, comfortable, and sustainable home. Reach out to DUCTZ at (877) 382-8987 today!