Joshua 
Many people need to realize the little things they can do daily to improve their home’s energy efficiency. These small changes can make a big difference, from turning off the lights after you leave for the night to adjusting your thermostat before you go. These are 13 habits that you can use to make your home more efficient.
Set the thermostat to your liking
Adjusting your thermostat is one of the best ways to improve your home’s efficiency. Your ideal home temperature should be between 70degF to 78degF. This will allow you to reduce your energy consumption and costs. This task is made easier by smart thermostats, which allow users to program specific temperatures for certain times of the day or weeks.
Ceiling fans should be run in opposite directions
Ceiling fans can be used as cooling or heating elements. Ceiling fans can create a gentle updraft by turning them clockwise. These force warm air to the ceiling, making it more comfortable in winter. Counterclockwise circulation of cool air circulates your home and keeps it cooler in summer. Locate the switch on the fan and flip it to change its direction.
A natural airflow is a good option
Although adjusting your thermostat or running ceiling fans can reduce your home’s energy consumption, natural ventilation could be more beneficial. You can regulate the temperature of your home by opening blinds or curtains during daylight to let in natural sunlight and closing them at night to keep it cool.
Natural airflow tips include opening doors when you are doing heat-generating activities (like cooking), and using exhaust fans to improve ventilation.
Shade Windows & Walls
Shading windows and walls to increase energy efficiency in your home is an easy way to do this. Shades and curtains that block light can be used to regulate temperature and reduce energy consumption.
Planting trees around your home is a great way to shade it from the sun. The natural insulation provided by trees can reduce the energy required to heat or cool your home.
Only run full dish & clothing washers
Your clothes washer or dishwasher can only run partial loads. These appliances work best when they are running full loads. You don’t have time to wait for full loads for your laundry chore. Instead, use the quick wash or energy-saving cycle option in your washer.
For washing clothes, cold water is better than hot water. Hot water takes more energy to heat up.
Air Dry Dishes & Clothing
After washing your dishes and clothes, you can dry them by air drying them. Air-drying dishes on dish racks or clotheslines is easy and efficient without consuming extra energy. The fastest drying time is achieved by drying clothing outside when it is possible.
You should clean your dryer’s lint trap if you have to use it for larger items. This will prevent lint buildup from reducing airflow and increasing drying time.
Before drying clothes, wring them out or spin them. This simple step can cut down on drying time by as much as 25%
Limit Water Usage
A bowl is a great way to save water if you wash dishes by hand. You can also control how much water you use to rinse them.
It can make a huge difference to save water by limiting the time you take to shower. You should use cold water whenever possible. Also, make sure to inspect for leaks as soon as they are discovered.
Unplug Electronics & Chargers When You Aren’t Using Them
Your electricity bill will rise if you leave your devices plugged in. When your device isn’t being charged or used, unplug it.
This task can be made easier by power strips, which allow you to turn off and unplug multiple devices simultaneously. These power strips are a great way for you to organize your home.
When lights aren’t being used, turn off the light
It may seem simple, but many people forget to switch off the lights when they leave a room. This can lead to unnecessary energy consumption. It is a good idea to make it a habit of turning them off when not in use.
Smart light switches can automate your home and ensure that lights are off when not in use. Smart devices can turn on your lights automatically when you are away from home or make it easy for you to do so.
You can choose natural light over electric lighting, which will reduce your need for bulbs and lights. This will also help to lower your home’s energy consumption.
An Energy Monitor can track your home’s energy consumption.
Energy monitors show electricity usage in real-time. This makes it easy for homeowners to keep track of their energy consumption. This information can be used to identify appliances that consume the most energy and make adjustments to save power. The data from the energy monitor can be used to identify energy waste, and then make insulation or other home improvements.
Recycle and reuse everything you can
Recycle and reuse all materials. This will help you reduce your home’s energy use. You can reduce waste and reuse what you can, as well as recycle the rest. Reusing bags and bins can make recycling more efficient and help you keep your stuff organized.
Six Additional Ways to Make Your Home Energy-Efficient
You can also implement other strategies to make your home more efficient.
You can weatherize your home to make it more comfortable in winter and summer, without consuming too much energy.
Insulating around doors and windows can help reduce heat loss and manage the temperature.
Double-glazing windows can reduce energy consumption for cooling and heating during the summer.
It is possible to replace your existing appliances with Energy Star models, which will significantly lower your home’s energy consumption.
Your electricity bill will be reduced by investing in renewable energy sources like solar power.
Upgrade to LED lighting fixtures requires less energy than traditional bulbs, and they last longer.
These energy-saving habits can be applied today
These simple habits can make your home more efficient. You can make a big difference in how much energy your home uses by making small changes every day. These easy tips can help you save money today.
