Little changes, real savings
The electricity bill keeps rising. There is a noticeable draft in the living room in the evenings. The primary bedroom is a lot warmer than the guest bedroom across the hall. The want to improve the home and energy efficiency is there, but there is no desire for a major remodel at this point in life.
The good news? You don’t need a major remodel to make a difference, because small home improvements matter. Unfortunately, small inefficiencies add up over time and homes lose energy in sneaky places. However, even minor fixes can improve comfort year-round. Cumberland Electric is here to help members save energy and money while improving comfort with these five tips.
Seal the gaps.
- How: Weatherstripping around doors and windows, caulking small cracks and adding door sweeps
- Why it matters: This practice keeps heated and cooled air where it belongs.
Upgrade to LED lighting.
- How: Replace frequently used bulbs first.
- Why it matters: LEDs last longer and use less energy. An easy swap leads to long-term savings.
Adjust the thermostat (yes, we know — thermostat).
- How: Turn the temperature down during the winter, especially while sleeping or away from the home. Turn the temperature up during the summer, especially while away.
- Why it matters: Heating and cooling are often the biggest energy users, and every degree of adjustment can reduce energy use without sacrificing comfort.
Improve insulation
- How: Insulate small, overlooked areas like ductwork in unconditioned spaces, attic access doors and pull down stairs
- Why it matters: This helps maintain consistent indoor temperatures.
Maintain what you have
- Why it matters: Efficiency drops when systems work harder than they need to.
- How: Change HVAC filters regularly, clean vents and returns, and check appliance seals