Americans use so much energy every day. So much energy is used that your electric expenditure often accounts for as much as 50% of your residential bills. Needless to say, your energy bills can result in a major knock on your home budget if you’re not careful. Luckily, there are ways to make a home more energy-efficient.

Get the Right Window Treatments

Windows are a vital part of your house as they let in natural light and can help you adjust the amount of privacy you need. That’s why people often get window treatments such as curtains, blinds, shades, and shutters. However, these window treatments aren’t just to keep the outside world from looking in or to make your windows look pretty. Did you know that you can reduce heat loss by 10% or gain by 33% when you use blinds or curtains in your home? When you need to lower those monthly utility bills, start shopping for home window treatments.

Replace or Seal Existing Windows and Doors

Are there cracks in your windows that you haven’t been fixed? Do you sometimes feel a draft coming through your window or door seal? According to Energy.gov, heat gain and heat loss through windows are responsible for 25% to 30% of residential heating and cooling energy use. You can prevent this by replacing those single-pane windows with more energy-efficient double-pane ones. It may also be a time to install a new door, which can be made from a variety of materials ranging from wood to iron.

HVAC Maintenance

Can you imagine your home without a quality HVAC system? As winter sets in, your HVAC system, whether you have central air, a mini ductless network, or a window unit can help keep your place warm and snug. However, your AC isn’t just there to heat or cool your home. It’s also responsible for air filtration and circulation. One of the keys to proper air filtration is, no shock, a filter! Without regular AC maintenance and properly switching out those filters, it can affect the efficiency of your system. Replacing your dirty filter can lower your HVAC energy consumption by 5% to 15%. Depending on the overall air quality of your climate, you may need to switch your air filter more often than other people. Professionals recommend switching the air filter at least every three months. However, you may need to do so monthly if you live in an area where pollution or a lot of dust.

Update Flooring

Hardwood can last up to a century with proper maintenance. However, carpets are nice and snug and feel good to walk barefoot. While hardwood may last longer, carpeting provides more energy efficiency when it comes to home insulation. If your carpeting is getting old and worn out, you can always increase its lifespan with professional cleaning and steaming services.

Plant Trees

Did you know that trees can help keep your home more energy efficient? Planting trees in strategic locations around your property is essential to providing adequate shading. As a result, it can help keep air inside cool or heated as necessary. You’ll have shading in the summer, as well as a blockage from wind and cold air in winter.

Maintaining an energy-efficient space is a great way to help reduce bills and keep you and your family as comfortable as possible. If you’re worried about your carbon impact on the environment and reducing your home budget, it may be time to plant a few trees, update your HVAC system, install new windows and doors, or shop for window treatments. As 2024 approaches, use these tips to have an energy-efficient home you’ll be proud of.