Utility prices have risen considerably over the last several years. Though plenty of relevant facts and figures are currently circulating on the internet, most Americans don’t need in-depth statistics to tell them the cost of operating a home is going up. A number of hardworking households are on a continual search for ways to reduce the expenses. Some simple DIY measures could help lower the cost of living to an extent.
Shed Some Light on the Subject
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, about five percent of most household energy spending goes toward lighting. An estimated 90 percent of the energy used by traditional bulbs is burned as heat with only 10 percent lighting the home. Compact fluorescent bulbs and LEDs are said to last far longer than their incandescent counterparts while using as much as 30 percent less energy.
Reduce Water Waste
For quite some time now, conservationists have preached the power of turning off the faucet while brushing teeth and taking shorter showers. Being sure to run full loads in the washing machine and dishwasher helps cut down on unnecessary water and energy use as well. Some consumption issues aren’t so easy to pinpoint, though.
By some accounts, toilets that constantly run waste more than 4,000 gallons of water each day. Leaking pipes can be equally uneconomical. If the toilet is running, have it fixed as soon as possible, and be sure to have your home’s plumbing inspected once a year to help detect hidden leaks before they get out of hand.
Seal out Heat and Cold
In many cases, a considerable portion of a home’s heating and cooling is lost through windows and doors. Even those rated highly on the energy efficiency scale can only do so much if the seals around them are missing or damaged. If you feel heat or cold coming in around your doors or windows, consider replacing their seals. Adhesive weather stripping is readily available at virtually any hardware store los angeles ca. It’s also inexpensive and simple to install.
Check the Insulation
Traditional roll and blown-in insulation tend to settle over time. No matter how fluffy and efficient it is at first, it’s going to lose a little of its effectiveness each year. At the same time, insulation in older homes may not be up to par with modern specifications. Be sure to check your insulation annually, and look into the recommended R-values for your area. If the insulation is looking worse for wear or hasn’t been replaced for several years, now is the time to act.
All Things Considered
Though there’s little anyone can do about the surging prices of utilities, these and other small steps could go a long way toward offsetting the cost. Swap out traditional bulbs for more efficient ones, cut back on water use and be sure your home is protected against heat transfer. Though these measures may require a small upfront investment, the time, effort and money spent will be well worth it in the long run.