Date Archives: February 12th, 2020

When people put together a home energy checklist, they are usually looking to save a few bucks. Just a simple switch here and a turn of the knob there can add up to literally hundreds of dollars in saved money over the course of a year. For individuals or families who live in places where the climate shifts year-round, it is extremely helpful to keep a checklist handy and go over it every month or so to be sure things are where they should be. 

Heating and Cooling

Heat accounts for 38% of energy use for houses on average;  more in some places, and less in others. Small changes to eating habits can bring down astronomical bills and make it more palatable:

• Check filters: most people forget this regular maintenance check but it is really simple. Set a calendar reminder every month on the same day and time to check the furnace, air conditioner, and heat pump if needed. Note the size of the filters and replacement parts. Keep a spare one handy to make it an easy swap
• Check thermostats: depending on the system, hundreds of dollars may be saved by setting it properly. A smart thermostat is being used in many homes that can be accessed remotely by phone app to increase or decrease temps when the person is away
• Heating blanket: lower the thermostat by a few degrees and invest in heating blankets and heavy comforters to stay warm

Cooling

If the heating and cooling system are one, many of the same steps apply as above. If not, here are a few simple checks to keep in mind:

• Close blinds during the summer days to keep cool air in and open again at night
• Turn off A/C in spring and fall to save money but also air out the home
• Use small fans or ceiling fans to cool the home rather than A/C
• Plants can help: go green and be eco-friendly with evergreen shrubs around the home to protect it from cold wind. Plant trees on the south and west sides of the yard for shade and to cool the house in summer

Appliance Checks

Appliances can use lots of electricity and heat. Whether it is air or water, heating elements use energy inefficiently. A home checklist helps fix issues with appliances to save money down the road:

• Check dishwashers to be sure they clean the dishes with a shorter wash cycle
• Use cold water for laundry to save money
• Use a toaster oven for quick-heating food rather than fire up the big oven for small-batch cooking
• Check efficiencies on all heating and cooling appliances in the house to be sure they're functioning at maximum capacity
• Turn off devices completely when not in use, including televisions, laptops, and other things which often get left 'powered on' and use up precious energy resources

A few other quick fixes can include checking light bulbs and switching them out for energy-efficient ones. Also, replace burnt-out bulbs and don't leave house lights on when not at home unless necessary. Keeping everything in working order and efficiently saves hundreds, if not thousands, over the life of a home (and the pocketbook). 

Families are going with Choice Properties for their realtor because they can help them find the right home for their needs. Whatever it is you are looking for, we will sit down to do a checklist of what your needs are and what you desire. If you are ready to take the next step in finding that perfect property, call Choice Properties today.