If you are like most people, you are always looking for different ways to save a little extra money on your bills. While some of them, like your mortgage or car payment, are fixed, others can be lowered with a little effort on your part. Your energy costs are one area where you have some control over how much you pay each month. By following a few easy tips and making some simple changes around your home, you can start saving money right away. This article will give you some great DIY steps you can take to increase your home’s energy efficiency!
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Replace Your Light Bulbs
One of the quickest and easiest ways to start saving money on your energy bill is to replace all of the traditional light bulbs in your home with energy-efficient ones. While the initial cost of LED or CFL bulbs may be higher than their incandescent counterparts, they last much longer and use far less energy. In fact, LED bulbs can use up to 85% less energy than incandescent bulbs, and CFLs can use up to 75% less. By making this one simple change, you could see a noticeable decrease in your monthly energy bill. And, over time, the cost of the new bulbs will pay for themselves!
Make Sure Your Home Is Properly Insulated
Another great way to save on your energy costs is by making sure your home is well insulated. You can do this by checking the insulation in your attic and walls. If you find that your home needs more insulation, you can easily add some yourself. There are many different types of insulation available, so be sure to do your research to find the best one for your home. Once you have added insulation, you will immediately start saving money on your energy bill!
Wash Your Clothes Using Cold Water
Most people assume they have to use hot water for their clothes to get clean. However, using cold water for your laundry won’t leave your clothes any less clean can actually save you money on your energy bill. Heating the water accounts for about 90% of the energy used to wash clothes. So, by making the switch to cold water, you could save a significant amount of money each month. Just be sure to use a cold water detergent for best results!
Turn The Heat Off When You Leave
One of the best ways to save money on your energy bill is to simply turn the heat off when you leave your home. If you’re going to be gone for more than a few hours, there’s no reason to keep your home heated. Just turn the thermostat down or off before you leave, and you’ll see a decrease in your energy bill.
Of course, you don’t want to come home to a cold house, so if you have a programmable thermostat, be sure to turn the heat back on about an hour before you’re due to arrive home. If you don’t have a programmable thermostat, it may be worth investing in one, as they can save you even more money on your energy bill! There are even options available that give you total control of your thermostat from your phone!
