1. Ignoring Air Leaks
Failing to seal air leaks can lead to significant energy loss:
- Use weatherstripping and caulk to seal gaps around doors and windows.
- Check for leaks around pipes, vents, and electrical outlets, and seal them properly.
- Don't forget to inspect less obvious areas like the attic, basement, and crawl spaces for air leaks.
2. Skipping Regular Maintenance
Neglecting regular maintenance of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system can reduce its efficiency:
- Replace HVAC filters every 1-3 months.
- Schedule annual professional inspections for your HVAC system.
- Clean ducts, vents, and coils to ensure optimal performance.
3. Overlooking Insulation
Poor insulation can lead to heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer:
- Ensure your attic, walls, and floors are properly insulated.
- Consider adding insulation to your basement and crawl spaces.
- Check for and replace any damaged or compressed insulation.
4. Using Incandescent Bulbs
Incandescent bulbs consume more energy compared to energy-efficient alternatives:
- Switch to LED or CFL bulbs, which use less energy and last longer.
- Use natural light whenever possible to reduce the need for artificial lighting.
5. Leaving Electronics and Appliances Plugged In
Electronics and appliances can draw power even when turned off, known as phantom or standby power:
- Unplug devices when not in use, or use power strips to turn off multiple devices at once.
- Consider smart power strips that automatically cut power to devices not in use.
6. Neglecting Window Treatments
Windows can be a major source of heat loss and gain:
- Use insulated curtains or blinds to reduce heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer.
- Install reflective window films to block solar heat in warmer months.
- Ensure windows are properly sealed to prevent drafts.
7. Setting the Thermostat Incorrectly
Improper thermostat settings can lead to unnecessary energy consumption:
- Use a programmable thermostat to set different temperatures for different times of the day.
- Set the thermostat to 68°F (20°C) in the winter and 78°F (26°C) in the summer when you are home.
- Lower or raise the thermostat when you are away or asleep to save energy.
8. Not Using Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans can help circulate air and reduce the need for heating and cooling:
- In the summer, run ceiling fans counterclockwise to create a cooling breeze.
- In the winter, run ceiling fans clockwise to push warm air down from the ceiling.
9. Overlooking Water Heating Efficiency
Water heating can account for a significant portion of your energy bill:
- Set your water heater to 120°F (49°C) to save energy.
- Insulate your water heater and hot water pipes to reduce heat loss.
- Consider installing a tankless or on-demand water heater for greater efficiency.
10. Ignoring Energy Audits
Regular energy audits can help identify areas where you can improve efficiency:
- Conduct a professional energy audit every few years to assess your home's energy performance.
- Follow the recommendations from the audit to make necessary improvements.
- Use DIY energy audit tools to regularly check for potential issues.
