Do you want to reduce your monthly energy bill? Do you want to lessen the impact you have on the environment? Luckily for you, the two go hand in hand! By reducing your homes energy consumption and waste, you can slash your energy bill while helping the environment. If you can reduce energy waste in your home, you can save hundreds of dollars a year, and the improvements will pay for themselves! We want you to be as energy efficient as possible, so we made a list of a couple exterior home improvements to help you out!
1. Install timer or motion detector lights
I’m sure like most people, you can just remember your dad harping on you to turn the lights off when you’re not using them. Now that you own a home, you can probably just hear yourself echoing your dad. One easy way to do this is to get motion detector lights, or lights on timers. A timer for your exterior lights will ensure you don’t leave them on during the day when they are not needed, and a motion detector will only activate when needed. Another option would be to get exterior lights with little solar panels on them.
2. Insulate your home
Insulation is key to your home’s energy efficiency, and ensures that the hot or cold air stays inside. Check on your homes insulation, particularly in the attic, to make sure there is no missing pieces or it has not deteriorated, especially if you own an old home.
3. Fix any leaks
This can be interpreted in a variety of ways. A leaky faucet or showerhead can be easily fixed, but a leak in your roof can be a bit more difficult. When you are checking the insulation in your attic, look for mold, cracks in the ceiling, dripping water, or sunlight shining through gaps. If water is leaking in through your roof, then that means the warm or cold air is escaping out.
4. Use energy efficient light bulbs
Using energy saving bulbs is one of the easiest and cheapest changes you can make and you can do it yourself! When using energy efficient bulbs outside of your home, consider making the switch for your interior lights as well!
5. Install a skylight
A skylight is a great way to give a room natural light and cut down energy costs!
6. Use energy efficient windows and doors
Windows and doors are essentially holes in your house. Installing ENERGY STAR certified doors and windows will pay for themselves in a matter of years and save you hundreds on your energy bill!
Whether you want to help save the environment, or want to save some money on utilities, or both, give Blackstone Exteriors a call to set up a free consultation for an estimate.
