Learn about how to save money by conserving energy at home

With over 6 billion people occupying our planet, we’re constantly reminded that natural resources are on the decline while harmful pollution is on the rise. If more people learn how to save energy at home, we can all do our part to help conserve our environment.

Since having a child, I’m more concerned about the environment than I ever was. I want to be sure that my son doesn’t have to wear SPF 2000 to leave the house because we’ve completely stripped our ozone layer. I feel it’s my obligation as a parent to learn more about our environment and how to save energy at home. Luckily, green is the new black. New, high end homes have plenty of environmentally friendly features including insulation made from recycled materials and solar panels. If you live in an older home that lacks all the bells and whistles of today’s modern home, there are affordable ways to modify your house in order to save money on your energy bill.
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The high tech homes of today are impressive, but not everyone is lucky enough to live in a brand new, state of the art “green” house complete with energy star appliances and double paned windows. If your energy bill is out of control and you’re concerned about the size of your carbon footprint, there are several easy steps you can take in order to ensure that you’re doing your part for the environment.

These tips can help show you how to save energy at home without breaking the bank:

– Signed, sealed and delivered: Replacing all of the insulation in a home may not be a realistic option for most people, but there are other ways to keep the outside air out. Sealing cracks and openings with caulk and weatherstripping can significantly lower cooling and heating costs. A qualified technician can conduct a blower door test in order to detect air leaks.

– Climate Control: Many two level homes have air conditioning units for each level. Instead of keeping the a/c blasting on both levels, only turn the climate control on on the level that is most frequently occupied. Change out your antiquated ceiling fan for a new, energy saving fan that allows more air circulation without using more energy. Also, it’s important not to turn your a/c or heater up or down. Keep the thermostat at a steady temperature of 78 during the summer and 68 during the winter.

– Chores:Studies have shown that using appliances such as your washer, dryer and dishwasher at night, rather than peak times, can help decrease the your energy bill. Also, doing your dishes by hand can save over 30% times the amount of energy and water than running the dishwasher.

– Let there be light! Change all of the bulbs in your house to new, energy saving bulbs. These bulbs use two thirds less energy than regular bulbs and will save you an average of $30 over the life of the bulb.

Following these helpful tips will teach you how to save energy at home and keep money in your pocket.