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June is American Housing Month. Whether you’re in your first home or your forever home, chances are there are habits you can tweak to make your home more energy-efficient—which helps both your budget and the environment.
Here are some tips from Century Next to help you get started:
Replace incandescent light bulbs with CFL (compact fluorescent) or LED (light-emitting diode) bulbs. Both CFL and LED options use
less energy and last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. You’ll save on energy costs and won’t have to replace bulbs as often.
Keeping an eye on your thermostat lowers your energy use—and your energy bill. Turn it up or down a few degrees when you leave the house, or install a programmable thermostat to do it automatically. In summer, use ceiling fans and close the blinds to stay cool. In winter, open curtains to let the sun naturally warm your home. And don’t forget to swap out air filters every three months for maximum efficiency.
Most store-bought cleaners are expensive and full of harsh chemicals. You can save money and protect the environment by making your own. Everyday items like vinegar, lemon juice, baking soda, and borax clean just about anything—from windows to countertops. You’ll find plenty of DIY recipes online.
If you can’t replace old windows, you can still make them more energy-efficient. Caulking exterior joints, adding window film, or hanging blackout curtains helps insulate your home and keeps heated or cooled air from escaping.
Want your refrigerator to use less energy? Keep the fan and coils clean so the motor doesn’t have to work as hard. Dust and pet hair can build up on the coils, so be sure to vacuum them regularly.
Decorating with houseplants not only looks great but also helps clean your indoor air. Spider plants, snake plants, peace lilies, aloe vera, rubber plants, and bamboo palms are just a few of the many houseplants known to be natural air purifiers.
Many devices use energy even when turned off—this is called vampire power. Unplug electronics and small appliances when they’re not in use to prevent energy waste.
If you’re still looking for a home to make your own, reach out to Century Next Mortgage. Our team of professionals can help you get started.
