The Three Best Ways to Give Your Home an Energy Makeover

Sustainability is not only the key to a greener future, but also the key to economic security for your family. Many experts are already hypothesizing that our planet has reached peak oil production. Traditional forms of energy are only going to become more expensive as our supplies continue to dwindle into the next century. If your home depends on heat and electricity from coal or other fossil fuels, then you can expect to see a massive spike in your utility bills in the coming years.

One solution that can help you take a chunk out of your bills, while contributing to the green revolution is to give your home a green energy makeover. It may sound like an expensive process, but there are several simple solutions that will help you drastically reduce your energy liabilities and shrink your carbon footprint.

Sustainability is a game of inches. If everyone on the planet took one small step towards living a greener life, we would make huge strides toward overcoming manmade climate change. Don’t be discouraged if a complete green energy makeover is out of your financial reach. Take the process one step at a time, beginning with these three low-cost recommendations.

1) Use energy-efficient light bulbs

Most people don’t have the means to convert their entire home over to solar or wind power. While these solutions are arguably the most “green,” there are simpler ways to reduce your dependence on fossil fuels. One of the most effective is replacing all of your old, inefficient light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs). Modern CFL technology allows you to save a boatload of cash. These lightbulbs burn slower and require less electricity to generate light. You’ll spend less time replacing them and pay less for every hour they are in operation. Don’t be deterred by the initial cost. CFLs are more expensive than standard light bulbs per bulb, but they’ll more than pay for themselves with energy and upkeep savings.

2) Unplug heavy-duty devices

You know that big white block in the middle of your Apple computer power chord? That piece contains an electrical part known as a capacitor. Capacitors draw and store energy from an outlet even when the connected device isn’t turned on. Several other common home appliances like television sets and microwaves have capacitors as well. If you want to increase your energy savings, unplug all heavy-duty electronic devices when they’re not in use. It won’t cost you a dime, but it will reduce your carbon footprint.

3) Install window blinds as a climate control

Foreclosure lawyers in Las Vegas use this tip to maintain bank-owned properties without spending money on utilities. It’s the same principle that a greenhouse operates on. If the sun’s rays pour into your windows, they will provide you with natural light and heat. If you reflect those rays back out you can reduce that greenhouse effect. In the winter, open up your blinds more often and let the sun’s light heat your home. It’s remarkable how much less artificial heating you’ll need to rely on. In the summer, do the opposite. Instead of running six A/C units, close your blinds to reflect the sun’s heat back into the air. The cooling effect is appreciable.