7 Energy-Saving Tips for Fall

As green builders, we know many ways to design and build energy-efficient homes. There's also a lot you can do in your existing home to conserve energy. As we head into the fall and winter, here are a few things you can do to make your home more energy-efficient:

1. Install programmable thermostats

Lower the temperature for the hours you’re not home. That's the key to saving an average of $180 a year in energy costs, according to EnergyStar. You can "cut annual heating bills by as much as 10 percent each year by turning your thermostat back 10 to 15 percent for eight hours a day.” A programmable thermostat let’s you set it and forget it, so no more worries about forgetting to turn it down on your way out the door. If you work from home, try heating just your home office or even using a space heater. Turning the heat down in the other areas of your home during work hours can serve as added motivation to stay at your desk!

2. Invest in smart faucets & showerheads

Smart faucets and showerheads help you reduce the amount of water you use needlessly. This, in turn, saves you money! How much water do you think goes down the drain while adjusting the temperature? While soaping up your dishes or hands? Maybe a few glasses full each time, but add up all the times throughout the day you and your family do this. You may be surprised how much water you can conserve and how much money you can save over time.

3. Take care of drafts and air leaks

Reducing air leaks could cut 10 percent from an average household's monthly energy bill. Consider the usual suspects like doors, windows, and vents. If you’re not sure where to begin, consider scheduling a home energy audit and have the professionals identify any potential issues making your home less airtight.

4. Make sure your heating and cooling equipment is properly maintained

Like everything else, your HVAC equipment needs proper maintenance in order to work efficiently (and save you money). HVAC systems should be checked by a professional once a year for cleaning and inspection for wear and damage, all of which can cause costly problems if left unattended. While hiring a professional to inspect your equipment costs money up front, it's likely to save you more in the long run.

5. Consider alternative heating sources

Fireplaces, wood burning stoves, or fireboxes with gas inserts are all great alternatives. The benefit? You can warm a space in your home without using your main heating system. Always use your fireplaces and stoves safely and be sure to keep the damper closed when it's not in use.

6. Use solar energy

This is another example of small acts making a big difference. You don’t need to install solar panels to reap the benefits of the sun. Keep your curtains open during the day to let the sun pour in and provide your home with a bit of added heat. When the sun goes down, close curtains and shades to help insulate your home against the colder nighttime temperatures.