While most prospective homebuyers consider their monthly mortgage payment (including principal, interest, and escrow/taxes), many do not adequately consider other monthly expenses associated with home ownership. Perhaps the most significant is the cost of energy-related activities, including electrical and heart. The purpose of this article is not to examine the many heating alternatives, including solar, geothermal, etc., but rather to review some simple steps, which one can easily take, to make their home more energy efficient and friendly. . . Let’s look at 5 simple and basic ideas/steps for energy conservation.

1. Windows and doors: Which is the Energy Efficiency Ratio of your front doors? What material are they made of? How are they hung? How much air is coming out, through the spaces created, due to your alignment? Simply by making sure your door has a bottom sweep, and the gaps around the top and sides are reduced/eliminated, it will prevent heat from escaping in the winter and air conditioning from escaping during the summer. What type of blinds or shades are you using, and are you using them, to let in the sun, when it’s cold, while reducing the heat from the sun, when it’s hot? When was the last time you had your windows checked, in terms of tightness, energy rating, and tint (if your local climate indicates)?

two. Isolation: Every form of insulation comes with some R-rated. This number indicates the amount of insulation, but are you sure all exterior walls and ceilings are properly insulated? Doing so could potentially save you a considerable amount of unnecessary energy costs.

3. Energy saving appliances: Certain appliances, especially refrigerators, freezers, and air conditioners, have become much more energy efficient in recent years. How old are yours? Look at the rating and it will indicate how much power a particular appliance might be using. When I recently replaced my refrigerator, the new one was much more efficient (therefore costing less to maintain) than my 15 year old model. Similarly, today’s oil and gas burners and boilers are much more efficient than ever.

Four. Water and toilet: Are there faucets that leak or toilets that continue to flush? Eliminate drips, change faucet heads (especially in the shower), and check the efficiency of your toilets.

5. Lights/Accessories: Start by making the effort to turn off the lights when you leave the room! What type of bulb are you using? Many light bulbs today are four or more times more efficient (use less energy/wattage) than older ones. Check your lights and fixtures regularly.

These 5 ideas may seem basic and obvious, but you’d be surprised how few people consider them. Unless you like to waste energy and spend more than you need to, using these simple conservation methods will save you money and reduce energy waste.