By following these steps to make your home more efficient and sustainable, you’ll not only save money on your monthly utility bills but benefit the planet as well.
Have you ever stopped to think about the amount of time, energy, and resources that go into maintaining your home? For example, the amount of electricity used to heat and cool your home, or the water used to wash the dishes and keep your lawn green throughout the summer
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the average U.S. household spent more than $1,600 on electricity in 2022. Additionally, the Environmental Protection Agency reports that American families use more than 300 gallons of water per day — enough to fill over 2,200 bottles! While this may seem like a lot now, these numbers are only expected to climb as temperatures fluctuate due to climate change.
The good news is that with just a few small tweaks, you can turn your home into a model of sustainability that has a positive impact on the environment while also saving you money in the long run. Here are a few suggestions to help you create a more efficient and sustainable home:
Unplug unused electronics
Energy consumption is a primary contributor to a changing climate, producing around 20% of greenhouse gases in the United States. Save money and energy at home by unplugging electronics like phone chargers, DVRs, printers, computers, and rarely-used TVs when they’re not in use. These electronics still consume energy when turned off and plugged in, and they can add an extra 10% to your monthly utility bill.
Control your home’s climate
Heating and cooling together typically account for 35-40% of home energy use. Regularly cleaning and replacing your cooling unit’s air filter can lower its energy consumption by up to 15%, and using ceiling fans to create a cool breeze in the summer or circulate warm air in the winter can keep you comfortable without touching the thermostat. Don’t forget to check for air leaks around windows and doors, and seal them properly — air leaks can add 10-20% to your heating and cooling bills if left unaddressed!
Fix water leaks
Speaking of leaks, according to the EPA, the average household’s water leaks can account for nearly 10,000 gallons of water wasted each year — that’s nearly a trillion gallons of water nationwide! Check for leaks at home in your kitchen, bathrooms, and outside. They’re often easy to fix and can save you about 10% on your water bill.
Reduce and reuse
The average American generates around 4.9 pounds of garbage per day. Reducing consumption and reusing items is the most effective way to reduce individual waste and prevent the emission of greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change. Before purchasing new items for your home, school, or office, look around and see what you can reuse, or try to buy secondhand first. Upcycling old or unwanted household items can be a fun DIY project for the whole family!
Build a better backyard
The right home landscape can save energy, water, and money. According to Energy.gov, a well-designed landscape can save enough energy to pay for itself in less than eight years. Depending on where you live, a few smart landscaping choices, such as creating shade, building windbreaks, and using xeriscaping techniques can help you weather hot and cold temperatures, chilly winds, and water shortages.
If we all take small steps to make our homes more efficient, it could make a positive difference for the planet and improve the quality of life for everyone. For more information about how you and your family can live a more sustainable lifestyle, visit NEEFusa.org.
