10 Energy Saving Tips for Homeowners

Summer is right around the corner, which means many homeowners will be cranking up the A/C unit. It can get pretty hot in Los Angeles during the summer so utility bills can be higher than normal. Luckily for those of us in the South Bay we get a cool ocean breeze, but there are still ways that we can all save energy at home. Our article will show you 10 easy tips that show you how to save energy at home all year round. 

1. Change Lightbulbs: One of the simplest ways to cut down on energy is by switching out the bulbs in five of your most frequently used light fixtures with ENERGY STAR® certified bulbs. By doing that, you can save more than $65 a year in energy costs. You can also conserve energy by remembering to turn off the lights when they’re not in use. According to ENERGY STAR®, turning off just one 60-watt incandescent bulb that would otherwise burn eight hours a day, can save about $15 per year.
   
   (LED light bulbs are more efficient than CFLs and Incandescent bulbs)
   
   
2. Unplug Electronics: Many of your electronics use power even when they’re turned off, so consider unplugging these phantom, or “vampire appliances,” such as battery chargers or power adapters, when you’re not using them. You can also use a power strip as a central “turn off” point for electronics that are not in use. 
   
   
3. Switch Out Showerheads: Switching out your showerhead with an energy-efficient one can help conserve water and energy. According to ENERGY STAR®, a 10-minute shower with a new, low-flow showerhead, can save you about five gallons of water over a typical bath.
   
   
4. Install Programmable Thermostat: If possible, installing a programmable thermostat can reduce your energy usage by automatically adjusting your home's temperature settings while you’re away or sleeping. ENERGY STAR® says using it properly can save up to $150 a year in energy costs.
   
   (smart thermostats like this one from Nest can help you save hundreds a year)
   

5. Get a Window Evaporative Cooler or Energy-Efficient Room Air Conditioner: A window evaporative cooler is an efficient alternative to a traditional central air conditioner and works best in low-humidity areas. If you purchase and install a qualifying Window Evaporative Cooler, you can receive a rebate of $200.

   If you’re considering a room air conditioner, try to buy an ENERGY STAR®-labeled model because it can use up to 10 percent less energy than a standard model.

   If you’re getting a window unit, make sure it fits tightly in the window so outdoor air doesn't get into the room.
   
   
6. Check Water-Heater Settings: One suggestion from Apartment Therapy is to check your water heater setting. Be sure that it is at the lowest comfortable setting so that you're not wasting unnecessary energy. You can also cover an older tank with an insulating jacket. The U.S. Department of Energy suggests that if you have an older hot water tank, check to see if it has insulation with an R-value of at least 24. If it doesn't, then consider insulating it. This can reduce standby heat losses by 25 to 45 percent and save about 4 to 9 percent in water heating costs.
   
   
7. Window Caulking: Another simple energy-saving tip from Apartment Therapy is caulking windows in older buildings to keep hot or cold air from getting inside your home.
   
   
   

8. Use Drapes: Easily control your home's temperature by taking advantage of drapes. Close window shades and drapes during hot days to keep the heat out, or vice versa, open them during the winter to let the sunshine in during the daytime.

9. Make Your Refrigerator More Efficient: New appliances are energy efficient, and you’re unable to purchase a newer and more energy-efficient refrigerator, there are some things you can do, such as cleaning the coils on the back of the fridge, to make it run more efficiently. Cleaning the condenser coils at least once a year could improve your refrigerator’s efficiency by 30 percent.

10. Clear Air Registers: Make sure air can circulate freely in your rooms by moving any furniture that may be blocking air registers.

For over 15 years Bay Cities Construction has helped hundreds of homeowners with their home remodeling projects, helping them transform their house into a home they love. Our team has the experience and expertise to help you with home remodeling, kitchen remodeling, bathroom remodeling, home additions, soft-story retrofits, and accessory dwelling units. When you hire Bay Cities Construction you don’t just hire a contractor, you hire an entire team of Pros. Our team of pros has the experience and the expertise to help you with Interior Design, Architectural and Engineering Services, City Representation, Permit Processing, Construction Project Management, and Construction services. If you think Bay Cities Construction is the right team for you, contact us today.

Are you ready to take the next step? We’re certain that Bay Cities Construction is the best general contractor for your project, you can Schedule an Appointment by clicking HERE. We offer a complimentary 1-hour consultation at our office, so you can meet our team and we can discuss your home remodeling project. Our team of Pros can help you design and build the kitchen of your dreams. If you have been disappointed by other contractors, it's time to call one of the best home remodelers in the South Bay.

Sources: U.S. Department of Energy, ENERGY STAR® and Apartment Therapy