There are a plethora of reasons to look for ways to make your home more energy-efficient, ranging from the money you lose when you waste energy to the environmental impact wasted energy has. Many others, on the other hand, are confused where to begin. Continue reading for some basic advice, then call Progressive Insulation & Windows at (800) 500-6200 for a free energy audit.

Invest in smart power strips

Power strips should always be smart power strips if you’re going to use them. Why? Because certain devices can continue to drain power even when they appear to be shut off, wasting as much as $200 per year in electricity. You may avoid this by unplugging each item when not in use, or by investing in a smart power strip that does all the heavy lifting for you.

In today’s market, there are a variety of smart power strips to choose from. Some include a master switch that you turn off when you’re not using any of the plugged-in products. Others are more complex, with motion sensors or voltage sensitivity controllers that take care of the heavy lifting.

Make sure your heating and cooling system is in good working order

If you’re like the average homeowner, you’ll spend approximately $2,000 per year on energy costs, with heating and cooling accounting for about half of that. Make sure your air filters are changed on a regular basis and that you undergo annual tune-ups. These easy methods can help you save money.

Check the temperature of your refrigerator

Refrigerators should be set between 35 and 38 degrees Fahrenheit, according to Energy Star. This temperature is cool enough to keep food fresh and safe, but not so cold that it wastes energy. You may also keep track of the temperature your freezer is set to.

Consult with your window and door provider

A large proportion of treated air could be escaping through your windows and doors. They may also be allowing a lot of cool and hot air in. Caulking or weather stripping around your windows and doors may be enough to solve these problems. This aids in the sealing of any leaks that may exist. Replacement windows and doors with more energy-efficient alternatives are another possibility.

We welcome your call to Progressive Insulation & Windows at (800) 500-6200 if you’d like a free energy assessment, want to learn more about replacing your windows, or have questions regarding exterior doors. You can also visit our showroom to witness firsthand samples of our items.