Fall is on its way, and the chilly Illinois weather will be affecting homeowners in and around Frankfort sooner than later. While many people focus on staying warm and comfortable during the seasonal transition, it’s also worth your time to consider ways in which to increase energy efficiency. Hint: It doesn’t need to be as hard or expensive as you might think.
Ready to boost your home’s efficiency this fall and winter? Here are 10 low or no-cost ways to get you started.
1. Keep Doors and Curtains Closed
If there are rooms in your home that don’t tend to get a lot of use, shutting their doors can help to reduce heating and cooling costs. Conditioned air can also be contained by keeping curtains closed when temperatures outside are extreme.
2. Get Your HVAC System Serviced
Maintaining your HVAC system will ensure it stays effective and efficient, so that you can stay comfortable while also saving money each month.
3. Use Cold Water to Wash Clothing
Many people don’t realize that cold water is just as effective as warmer water when it comes to cleaning lightly-soiled laundry. Looking to save a few bucks? Stick to a cold water wash unless you’re dealing with truly dirty clothes.
4. Set Your Thermostat
Did you know that your heating bill can rise by approximately 10% with each extra degree you warm your home? Setting your thermostat at a reasonable temperature that creates a comfortable environment without being too warm can help save you some money this fall.
5. Insulate Your Attic
If your attic lacks proper levels of insulation, you may be paying more than you should be while losing conditioned air in the process. Insulate your attic, and these issues will effectively vanish. Concerned about paying for this upgrade? Consider on-bill financing!
6. Clean Your Refrigerator Coils Annually
If frost and ice are allowed to build on your refrigerator’s coils, it will inevitably have to run extra hard in order to keep the contents of the fridge cool. Cleaning your coils on an annual basis can help solve this all too common issue.
7. Turn Off All Lights When Leaving Home
By far one of the most important things you can do to save on wasted electricity is to turn every light in the home off before leaving. Lights that are left on can be “energy vampires,” sucking precious dollars out of your bank account each month.
8. Unplug Computers, TVs and Other Appliances When Not in Use
Other vampires include computers, TVs and small appliances. By unplugging these devices, you may be able to save yourself some hard-earned money.
9. Grill Outside
Want to save energy by keeping the stove and oven off for the most part? You can still cook at home—just take it outside and fire up the grill!
10. Replace Incandescent Bulbs
If you haven’t already replaced every incandescent bulb in your home with an LED, now’s the time. Their long lifespan and associated energy savings are impossible to beat.