Energy Efficiency Tips for Senior Households
Seniors who make smart, small changes will see lower energy bills with a little effort.
A house should adapt its energy use as its residents age. Senior households could save money on energy while living more comfortably. Here’s how:
Seal the leaks
Drafty windows and doors are often behind wayward energy bills. The remedy is to seal them with weather stripping or caulk. Such a fairly simple fix keeps the warmth within while fending off the cold, or vice versa.
Upgrade to LED lights
Try swapping out old light bulbs for LEDs, the high-quality ones. LEDs use a fraction of the energy and last much longer than many fluorescent or incandescent bulbs. If the LED is high-quality, it’ll be bright and easy on the eyes, too.
Smart thermostats
Save energy without struggle (installation notwithstanding) with a smart thermostat. They adjust the temperature depending on user habits and preferences. They can lower the heat or AC when residents aren’t home.
Energy-efficient appliances
If the time has come to replace an appliance, swap it for one with an Energy Star rating to use less energy and water for lower bills. The Energy Star label will proudly display the device’s efficiency.
Insulate and save
A house with solid insulation is pleasant year-round. Hence, check the attic, walls, and floors. Upgrading insulation in these places can keep the heat inside in the winter while the home stays cool in the summer.
Water heating
Heating water eats up energy quickly, so keep the heater temperature to no more than 120°F. That’s enough for a warm shower but not hot enough to go to waste. It’s also wise to insulate the water heater and pipes to keep the water warmer without extra heating.
HVAC system
The HVAC system should be clean, and don’t forget about replacing the filters when necessary. A clean and efficient running system uses less energy but makes the room more comfortable.
Use power strips
Phantom loads needlessly consume energy when electronics are off but are still plugged in. So, instead of plugging them directly into a wall outlet, connect devices to power strips. It’s easy to turn multiple appliances on and off, saving power with no strain. For another tip: turn off the strip when not using the devices.
Natural light
Another easy, non-demanding tip for senior citizens is to make the most of natural light. After all, it’s free and means not wasting energy on artificial light. Open curtains during the day to brighten the home naturally.
Learn and monitor
Many utility companies have tools to monitor energy consumption. It’s good to do so because following patterns can help residents make smarter choices in energy use.
Save energy at any age
Seniors who make smart, small changes will see lower energy bills with a little effort. These tips make a home more comfortable and keep more money in your pocket if you’re a senior citizen. Try one or two changes and see the difference in energy consumption and bills. For more tips and help, talk to a senior care specialist for their best recommendations.
Home and Healthy LLC is a licensed, fully insured home improvement contractor offering personalized solutions for New Jersey seniors and their families. Call today at (609) 916-8312.
