Easy Ways to Save Energy and Money in Your Home this Fall and Winter

Simple changes can have a big impact on your energy bills. Use these easy tips to conserve energy in your Houston, Texas home and save money this fall and winter!

• Turn down the water temp. According to the the U.S. Department of Energy, water heating accounts for about 18% of the energy consumed in your home. Lower your water heater temperature to the warm setting (120F) to conserve energy. You may even consider installing a tankless water heater, which heats the water you use on demand and eliminates the standby energy losses associated with a water storage tank.
• Heat more efficiently. Close the curtains over your windows at night to improve insulation. During the day, open them up and allow the sunlight from south-facing windows to heat the house. Replace or clean air filters regularly to reduce strain on your HVAC system.
• Replace traditional light bulbs. During the shorter, dark days of winter we tend to use our electric lights more. Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) consume significantly less energy and last far longer than their incandescent counterparts.
• Adjust the thermostat. Keep your thermostat as comfortably low as possible while youre home and awake. When youre sleeping or away, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends turning your thermostat back 10 to 15 for eight hours to save around 10% a year on your heating and cooling bills. Do this manually or invest in a programmable thermostat to make it even simpler!
• Insulate windows and doors. According to the International Association of Home Inspectors (InterNACHI), approximately 33% of a homes heat loss typically happens via doors and windows. Apply weather stripping to doors and seal cracks with caulk for a simple, low-cost solution.
• Invest in LED holiday decorations. Make your holidays merry and bright by decorating with energy efficient LED light strings.

If you or someone you know is interested in purchasing a more energy efficient home, we can help! Call us at (713) 515-3463 or contact us here to get started!

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