On average, Americans spend $122 on the monthly home energy bill. But if you live in one of the notoriously expensive cities in the country, like Alexandria in Virginia State, you’re probably not a stranger to paying an average of $186 per month. Living in Alexandria is 37% higher than the national average.
So, are you tired of those shocking energy bills zapping your bank account? Do not worry! All you have to do is make your house energy efficient so that you conserve energy and save yourself from going broke.
In Alexandria, where the cost of living is skyrocketing, saving money wherever possible is important, and what better way is there to do that than paying reduced utility bills? Here’s how you can go about this:
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Repair the roof
Are you wondering why your house feels extra hot in the summer and colder in the winter? The problem may be right before your eyes (or above). It is probably your old roof creating troubles. It’s time to fix the roof.
Start by identifying and sealing any leaks or gaps in your roof. Leaky roofs can lead to energy loss as warm or cool air escapes your home, causing your heating and cooling systems to work harder and your energy bill to cost an arm and a leg.
Roof repairs in main cities throughout the state of Virginia, including Alexandria, can cost you anything between $6,500 to $13,000, depending on the scope of the work. The investment will pay off in the long run, so contact Alexandria roof repair experts and get it fixed ASAP! Investing in these roofing repairs and improvements will make your house more energy-efficient, contribute to a more sustainable future, and save money on energy bills.
Fix the lighting
Let’s begin with the sparks of illumination! Swap out those energy-guzzling incandescent bulbs for energy-efficient LEDs. These shine brighter, last longer, and save more energy than other bulbs. Be sure to add dimmers to adjust the brightness and how much electricity the lights use.
But why stop there? How about investing in motion-activated lighting in your home? The joy of feeling like a secret agent as you enter a room and the lights magically come on is unbeatable.
Reduce standby power consumption
When devices are plugged in, they are still connected to the power source, and even in standby mode, they consume electricity. This standby power usage may seem insignificant for individual devices. Still, considering all the plugged-in gadgets in your home can add up to considerable wasted energy over time.
Done watching TV? Remember to turn it off! Do you not need that blender anymore? Unplug it as soon as you shift your smoothie to another glass! These minor habits will reduce your energy consumption. You’ll notice a difference in your monthly bills when you habitually unplug devices that are not actively being used.
To make the process of unplugging devices more convenient, you can use power strips or smart power outlets with switches to easily turn off multiple devices at once. Investing in energy-efficient devices and chargers can reduce standby power consumption.
Change the curtains
Give your windows a performance makeover with energy-efficient curtains and blinds. These block out heat during summer and keep the cold at bay during winter acts.
Alternatively, you can opt for thermal curtains. They keep your living space warm and inviting without you having to worry about wasting energy.
Save energy in the kitchen
It is time to bid farewell to traditional kitchen appliances and switch to more energy-efficient ones. From energy star refrigerators to induction cooktops and convection ovens, they are the superheroes of energy savings, working tirelessly to cut down your energy usage.
Make sure you choose energy-efficient cookware made of materials that conduct heat well, like stainless steel or copper. These culinary charms ensure even cooking, reducing the time your stove or oven needs to work its magic.
Add some greenery
Bring some green energy into your home by adding energy-efficient houseplants. These advanced house plants have the power to filter out pollutants and toxins, leaving your indoor air fresher and cleaner. Not only do they purify the air, but they also add a touch of life to your living space.
Use sunlight
Harness the power of the sun to dry your laundry naturally. Hang your clothes outside and let the sun give them a warm embrace. As your laundry sways gently in the wind, it dries naturally, and you save both energy and money without compromising on freshness and softness. You get a bonus workout from running back and forth to check if they’re dry.
Use high-efficiency furnaces
High-efficiency furnaces are the reigning champions of energy savings in the heating world. They utilize advanced technology and design to convert a greater portion of the fuel they consume into heat, wasting less energy. These furnaces can also be integrated with zoning systems, allowing you to divide your home into different heating zones. That way, you only heat the occupied areas, reducing energy waste in unused spaces.
Use energy-efficient water heaters
Energy-efficient water heaters use advanced technologies to generate hot water while minimizing energy waste. You can even opt for a hybrid water heater. These heaters combine the better of two worlds – heat pump technology and conventional heating elements. They draw heat from the air to heat water, using significantly less electricity than traditional models.
When considering the installation of a new heating system, it’s vital to consult with experts who can provide both insight and services tailored to your needs and address potential issues with your water heater. Their professional advice can help you determine whether a hybrid water heater or another energy-efficient option is the best choice for your home, ensuring comfort without compromising on efficiency.
Conclusion
It is time to turn your house into an energy-efficient home. Ensure you unplug those devices, install energy-efficient lights and make the necessary repairs. Owning an energy-efficient house earns the ultimate green credential – an eco-warrior badge of honor! It’s the status symbol for modern-day environmental heroes. Flaunt it like a shiny trophy.
