Tips on How to Save Energy in the New Year

Here at Universal Home Experts, we love to make New Year’s resolutions that benefit our entire family! If you’re looking for practical ideas that can help you save money and improve your lifestyle, try some of these energy-saving resolutions in the new decade!

Ways to Save Energy in 2020

Keep Your Fridge and Freezer Full

Did you know that your refrigerator works harder to cool things when it’s less than half full? It’s all because of heat transference; when there’s more open space in your fridge, it takes longer for the unit to cool the area after you open the door. When you have it filled at least half-way, your system will spend less energy chilling warm air after you open the door.

Have Your Air Ducts Cleaned

If your HVAC system is at least five years old, there’s a good chance you could benefit from this service. In fact, we recommend getting a duct cleaning every eight years or so — but you should get one much sooner and more frequently if you’re experiencing problems with moisture in your home.

In addition to duct cleaning, you can also help your HVAC system run much more efficiently with a professional duct sealing service. When you opt for this, a licensed technician will inspect every square inch of ductwork in your home. If they run into any holes or leaks, they’ll seal them so that air will stop escaping; this helps make the unit run much more smoothly and doesn’t put it into overdrive.

Use Battery-Operated Lights

Instead of keeping a lamp plugged in or the lights on, invest in some battery-operated tap lights. These are especially useful on nightstands and end tables, giving you just enough illumination to read a book or unwind while saving energy.

Groom Your Pets Regularly

Long-hair pets should be brushed at least three times a week, and frequent vacuuming will ensure that any hair follicles and dander don’t drift into your vents. Grooming makes your pet feel great, cuts back on hair in the house, and can prevent your HVAC from becoming clogged. It’s a win for everyone!

Weatherstrip Your Home

Weatherstripping isn’t just for cold climates; heat or cold air loss in any season can cause your HVAC system to go into overdrive and consume more energy. Caulk any openings on your home’s exterior, and make sure that your doors and windows are always tightly sealed. Eliminating air leaks with inexpensive weatherstripping kits will keep everyone comfortable and save you money year-round.

Air-Dry Your Laundry

Although some articles of clothing may need to be run through the dryer, many items can be left to air-dry in the house. In the slightly colder months of the year, air-drying clothes indoors can act as a humidifier, releasing some much-needed moisture into a dry room.

Not only does air-drying laundry save you money, but it also keeps your clothes brighter. You can also reduce fabric wearing out by washing on cold instead of hot, followed by air-drying near a fan.

To prevent heavy clothing items, like sweaters and coats, from becoming misshapen, consider buying a flat drying rack designed for bulkier pieces.

Switch to Energy-Efficient Power Strips

Energy-efficient power strips are easy to turn on and off at your will; using them draws less energy and will allow you to turn off appliances that you’d typically leave plugged in. That said, you’ll want to look for smart power strips that can automatically shut off when a connected device is no longer in use. And, of course, you’ll still want to practice standard electrical safety protocol and not overpack each power strip, since you could still encounter possible danger.

Some people fear that power strips will draw more energy because of their size. In reality, they provide a single current of energy rather than multiple for different devices plugged into an outlet. You may also wish to look for a power strip that offers surge protection, giving your home an added layer of safety while consuming less energy.

Let Universal Home Experts Handle Your Electrical, HVAC, and Plumbing Needs!

For any of your Houston plumbing, electrical and HVAC needs, contact us at (713) 364-0226! We offer year-round service that includes everything from routine HVAC tune-ups to surge protection. Our skilled technicians would be happy to answer any of your questions and recommend the perfect home energy solutions for you.