Running an efficient home has many benefits. It is likely that day-to-day living is simpler and, as a result, you are more productive. Your family is likely to be happier and healthier. It is also likely that you will save money. There are several ways you can make your home run more efficiently.

Windows And Doors

Ensuring you have good quality windows and doors installed has several benefits. Renewal by Andersen windows is a great place to start your search, should you be looking to replace yours in the not too distant future. In the winter months, your home will be warmer as the windows will keep in heat. The opposite is true in the summer months. The insulation will keep out the extreme heat, ensuring a cooler, more comfortable environment. This will allow you to save money on heating and cooling costs.

Always ensure you find a reputable windows company such as Window Replacement by Able Roof. Look for windows with a good R-factor and check for guarantees. Some companies will guarantee windows for as long as you live there.

How to get the most out of your windows:

• Clean all window frames and panes regularly.
• Check for damage several times a year, particularly after bad weather.
• Ensure windows are properly sealed. Condensation between the panes and leaks could indicate otherwise.
• Check for droughts.
• Draw curtains in the winter months as an extra layer of protection against the cold.

Boiler

A significant portion of your fuel costs is likely to be spent on heating and hot water. It is, therefore, vital that your boiler is up to code. If not, you could be wasting money. Newer boilers are more efficient and, therefore, more cost effective. Ensure your boiler is fitted with the right thermostat and controls. This will allow you more control over your heating. You can ensure heat and hot water when needed, without wasting fuel. Some heating systems can be managed by your cell phone via an app. Your boiler should be serviced once a year. This will ensure it is running effectively. An efficient boiler will save you money. Regular servicing is also essential for safety reasons. If you don’t use your central heating during the summer months, it is still a good idea to switch it on every so often. Just 15 minutes will be sufficient to prevent it from seizing up.

Air Conditioning

If you use an air conditioning system to cool down your home, it is important to check that it is working effectively. Older systems may not function as well as newer air-con units and may be costing you money.

Ensure your air conditioning unit is sized according to the space it is cooling. Systems that are too large for the area will be ineffective. Avoid setting the temperature to lower than is needed. This will not cool the room quicker but will waste money. Use fans to distribute the cooler air throughout your home.
Use a qualified technician to inspect your cooling system on an annual basis.

Replace Your Light Bulbs

If you’re not using them already, switch to Compact Fluorescent Bulbs (CFLs). These light bulbs may be slightly more expensive, but they will save you money over time. They will reduce the amount of energy you’re using and can last up to 12 times longer than standard bulbs.

Invest In Energy Efficient Appliances

Over the last few years, manufacturers have been creating appliances that use less energy. Look for ENERGY STAR appliances and electronics. These appliances will use around 15% to 20% less energy and water than standard appliances. This will result in reduced energy and utility bills.

Switch Off

This may sound like an obvious action, but it is something that costs most households a lot of money each year. When you’re not using an appliance, switch it off. This is particularly true of items that go into standby mode. When in standby they are still consuming electricity. So switch them off fully. Another culprit is phone chargers. They draw energy when plugged in, even if your phone isn’t charging. Lighting is another area where savings can be made. It is not necessary to illuminate the whole house. Turn off lamps and lights when not in use.

Water

There are several ways to reduce the amount of water consumed in your home:

• When brushing your teeth, turn the tap off between brushing
• Use a low-flow shower head. This can reduce water by up to 40%.
• When showering, switch the shower on to wet your body and then turn it off while soaping.
• Only fill your bathtub as much as necessary when you take a bath. It isn’t necessary to fill it fully.
• Check for issues with the lavatory. Ensure it isn’t continually running or flushing. This wastes a lot of water.
• When doing the laundry, ensure you have enough clothes to create a full load.
• Run the dishwasher only when it is full.
• When using the kettle, only heat as much water as is necessary.

Maintenance

Create a calendar and carry out regular maintenance checks on your home. Check for signs of damage. Regular preventative measures will ensure you spot potential problems in good time. This will allow you to fix them before they escalate, potentially saving a lot of money.

Appliances that are working properly will be much more efficient and will also save you money.

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Food

A significant amount of money is wasted each year on food. We regularly purchase too much and throw away food that has passed its best. There are several ways you can prevent this and keep down the costs of your grocery shopping.

• Plan your family’s meals in advance and use them to put together your shopping list.
• Always make a list before shopping and stick to it.
• Wherever possible, buy in bulk. Ensure you have adequate storage space.
• When making meals, prepare double the amount required. The surplus can be frozen to make healthy ready meals.
• Prepare your own packed lunches rather than buying from stores.
• Save and eat your leftovers.
• Store food correctly to increase its life.

With a little thought and organization, it is possible to make your home more efficient. Some of these changes can be applied immediately to start saving you money.