Spring is the perfect time of year to clean your home from top to bottom, but did you know that it’s also an opportunity to improve your home’s energy efficiency? By taking a few simple steps, you can reduce your carbon footprint and save money on your energy bills. Whether you’re looking for small changes or larger projects, there’s something here for everyone.

Inspect your windows and doors

Air leaks around windows, doors, and other areas of your home can cause drafts and allow conditioned air to escape outside. This means that you may be wasting energy trying to heat or cool spaces that don’t need it. Check for drafts around your windows and doors by running your hand along the edges on a windy day. Use weather stripping, caulk, or foam sealant to seal gaps and cracks around doors and windows.

Service your HVAC system

Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system work hard throughout the year to keep your home comfortable. However, over time they can become clogged with dirt, debris, and dust which reduces their efficiency. To ensure that it’s running efficiently, it’s important to perform regular maintenance tasks like changing filters and cleaning ducts. This not only improves the lifespan of the system, but it also reduces its overall energy consumption. Have a professional service technician come out to inspect and clean your HVAC system before the summer months arrive.

Upgrade your lighting

Did you know that lighting accounts for up to 20% of a typical homeowner’s electricity bill? By upgrading your lighting fixtures with LED bulbs, you can reduce this cost significantly while also improving the quality of light in your home. LED bulbs last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs and use less energy, making them an excellent investment in both environmental sustainability and financial savings.

Unplug unused electronics

Did you know that electronics left plugged in can still consume power even when turned off? This phenomenon is known as standby power or phantom load, which accounts for 5 to 10% of residential electricity usage according to Energy.gov. Make sure to unplug electronics such as chargers, computers, or small appliances when not in use so that they don’t continue drawing power.

Install smart home technology

Smart home technology is becoming increasingly popular among homeowners who want greater control over their energy usage. By installing smart thermostats, you can remotely control the temperature of your home and set it to automatically adjust based on your schedule. Other smart home devices like lighting and power outlets can also help reduce your energy usage by turning off appliances when they’re not in use.

Spring cleaning your home for improved energy efficiency can help you save money and make yourhome more comfortable. By taking these steps you’ll be able to lower your utility bills and do your part to protect the environment. You don’t have to do everything at once, but making small changes over time can add up to significant savings. Take some time this season to tackle some of these tasks, and you’ll enjoy the benefits long into the future!

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