Make Your Home More Energy-Efficient with 5 Simple Upgrades

When we think of “energy efficiency,” images of endless rows of solar installations or electric cars might come to mind. But did you know you can achieve energy efficiency in your own home? It’s not only a contribution to a sustainable future, but it also helps you save energy, cut costs, and enjoy a more comfortable living space.

At ServiceDeck, we’ve put together 5 simple energy-efficient upgrades you can start today to make the most of the energy and enjoy long-term savings. Let’s explore!

Lighting is one of the easiest ways to target energy savings. Did you know that traditional incandescent bulbs waste up to 90% of their energy by generating heat instead of light? Switching to LEDs or CFLs can make a noticeable difference in your energy bills.

Across the United States, the average number of light bulbs per house ranges from about 30 to 50, according to the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. 3,000 kWh of electricity per year. At the national average of $0.17 per kWh, these homeowners spend $510 a year on lighting. By switching to LEDs, you can save more than $10,000 over 20 years (the typical lifespan of an LED).

• CFLs: Use 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs and last 10 times longer.
• LEDs: Even better—these consume the least energy, last for years, and are mercury-free.
• Smart controls: Install dimmers, motion sensors, or timers to ensure your lights only work when needed, offering additional energy savings.

Upgrading your lighting is a simple step to save energy and create a cozy, well-lit space in your home. Need help installing an LED lighting system? Create an account on ServiceDeck, add your request at your convenience, and nearby electricians will reach out.

Ceiling fans are a year-round energy-saving tool that can complement your heating and cooling system. They improve airflow, making your HVAC system more efficient.

• In summer, ceiling fans create a breeze, allowing you to raise your thermostat without sacrificing comfort.
• In winter, reverse the fan’s direction to circulate warm air that rises to the ceiling.

This simple switch helps lower energy use and keeps your home comfortable in every season.

Did you know heating and cooling account for a significant portion of your energy bills? A smart thermostat makes managing your home’s temperature easy, saving energy and ensuring comfort.

• Program it to adjust temperatures automatically, so you use less energy when you’re asleep or away.
• Save up to 10% a year on heating and cooling costs.
• Control settings remotely from your phone, making it easier than ever to stay energy-efficient.

If you feel like a Smart Thermostat is a solution for you, make sure it is installed properly. Start your project with ServiceDeck and receive quotes from the best HVAC specialists in your area!

With minimal effort, a smart thermostat can help you lower energy bills and save time while maintaining a comfortable home.

Drafty windows and poorly sealed doors are like leaving money on the table. Hot air can also escape through gaps in ductwork. This means you’re paying to heat areas you don’t need, such as an unfinished basement, while neglecting spaces you want warm, like bedrooms. Sealing these gaps and upgrading insulation is one of the best ways to save on energy at home.

Here’s how you can do it yourself:

Find Drafts: Begin by inspecting your attic, basement, and crawl spaces for cracks, gaps, or openings where cold air might seep through.

Paper Technique: All you need is a simple piece of paper. Hold it near suspected gaps; if the paper moves, you’ve found a draft near window frames or outlets. Another trick is to shut a door or window on a dollar bill. If it slides through easily, you have an air leak!

Seal gaps: Use mastic sealant or metal tape to seal air leaks, and insulate any accessible ducts in areas like attics, crawlspaces, basements, or garages.

Pro tip: Avoid using duct tape for this job – it won’t last long.

Many appliances and chargers still use power even when they’re not in use. This “phantom” energy consumption can add up, raising your energy bills unnecessarily.

Tips to save energy and reduce phantom usage:

• Unplug devices like the toaster or guest-room TV when not in use.
• Disconnect chargers once phones and tablets are fully charged.
• Use smart power strips to easily cut off power to multiple devices at once.