It’s 2022 and everyone is making their lists of resolutions, buying new water bottles and joining gyms. So we thought it would be the perfect time to create some easy resolutions for increasing the energy efficiency of your home and your life. These tips will save you energy all year long, making them easy to keep. And in a year when costs to heat your home are projected to be high, these changes could also save you money.
Turn off lights when you leave every room.
It seems so simple, but especially in the Northeast during the darkest months of the year, it’s easy to leave a light on as you go from room to room. So resolving to turn them off can save you on your bills. Or better yet, install energy-efficient smart lights that turn off automatically to save even more.
Turn down the heat at night.
Adjusting your thermostat even a degree or two can make a big difference in your heating bill. And to make it easy to remember, just try making a thermostat check part of your bedtime routine. That way you will still be nice and cozy as you snuggle into bed. Want to automate this little task? A programmable thermostat can adjust your temp down after bed and then automatically kick back up as you get up in the morning.
Insulate leaky windows and doors.
Whether you got the temporary route or look to make more permanent changes, insulating leaks in your home can really make a difference on your heating bill and your carbon footprint. For temporary fixes, a quick trip to your local hardware store can arm you with plastic window sealing kits, rope caulking and door seals. In just a couple of hours’ time, you could reduce the amount of heat going out your windows. Or you can work with a local company to assess your needs and upgrade and caulk windows.
Look into saving with solar.
We aren’t saying put an entire array in your backyard or roof. This resolution is simply to look into whether solar could work for your home. Many solar companies will do a free evaluation to let you know the best options for your home. At Revise, we will refer you to one of our trusted solar partners so they can advise on the best solar options for your home.
Consider an electric vehicle.
Maybe you’re not due for a car yet, but when you are, electric vehicles are becoming the cornerstone of many manufacturers’ US fleets. Gone are the days of only one or two models to choose from. And with the uptick in availability, there is also an uptick in infrastructure for charging. You could also qualify for a tax credit come tax season.