Top Energy Wasters in your Houston Home
Posted by Lynton Web Team on Thu, Dec 08, 2011
If you're like us, you love saving money on your energy bills. But beyond taking dad's advice and shutting off lights when you leave the room, what can you do to make a real impact on your energy consumption?
Your home's top energy wasters might surprise you. Here are a few:
Drafts / Inadequate Insulation
Heat loss in the Winter and heat gain in the Summer can cause us to rely more heavily on our air conditioners and heaters to reach a comfortable temperature in our Houston homes. In some cases, a home would benefit from more or better attic insulation. In other cases, a homeowner would be wise to invest in some inexpensive weatherstripping and caulking to seal gaps around doors and windows.
Old Appliances
Modern, front-loading washing machines, for example, can save you up to 85% on your energy costs and use up to 75% less water. So, even though you might spend a little more on the purchase of your new machine, the energy-efficient model will likely save you up to $200 / year on your energy bill. Do the same with your dishwasher, refrigerator, and your clothes dryer, and you'll notice a huge change in your energy bill - for the better!
Vampires
No, we're not talking about the latest "Twilight" film. We're referring to all those appliances you keep plugged in and running even when they're not in use. They might seem insignificant individually, but an old alarm clock in a rarely-used room, a video game console you haven't fired up in months, a toaster oven with a clock on it, or your laptop charger plugged in even though your laptop is already charged -- those "vampires" add up to a decent chunk of charges on your electric bill. Unplug them, and watch your expenses go down.
Air Conditioner / Furnace
Beyond air loss caused by drafts and inadequate insulation, an unmaintained air conditioning unit or furnace can drive energy costs up. Annual inspections of your A/C in Springtime and your heater in the Fall can make sure your units are in full working order.
Small Loads
Ever woken up one morning and just really wanted to wear that blue shirt that just so happens to be in the wash instead of the white one that's hanging in your closet all ready to go? We don't mean to step on the toes of your fashion sense, but running half-full (or smaller!) loads of laundry or dishes can waste a ton of energy and water. And while you're at it, stock up that fridge and freezer, too. With more items in them, they need less energy to keep cool, and that means more savings for you.
Did you know .. ? John Moore Services offers Houston home energy audits, so if you're not sure where all your money is going on your electric bill, give us a call, and we can help!