Get Smart with an Energy-Efficient Kitchen
Earth Day was created to inspire individuals to make environmentally friendly decisions in their daily lives, and one of the ways we can accomplish that is by making our homes more energy efficient. One room in which you can make a big impact in energy savings is the kitchen. It’s one of the busiest and most power-hungry areas in a home, but making these five changes will help you cut costs and curtail energy consumption.
Lower the Flow
The average American household uses around 138 gallons of water every day, and approximately 19 percent of that comes from faucets. Replacing your current kitchen faucet, as well as those in bathrooms, with low-flow or adjustable-flow models cuts a faucet’s water flow by 30 to 60 percent, which could add up to a savings of over 700 gallons a year. Even better, low-flow faucets are modestly priced, and installation is easy enough for even first-time DIYers.
Energy Efficient Pull the Plug
Coffee makers, blenders, and toasters are some of the everyday appliances that many homeowners leave plugged in throughout the day. However, these items continue to draw electricity even when sitting idle. Unplugging appliances when not in use will eliminate such phantom power consumption while saving 5 to 10 percent in energy costs.
Flip the Switch
Leaving the lights on when exiting a room is lightening your wallet; just an extra eight hours a day can add up to $900 a year. Even though the kitchen sees a lot of traffic, turn off lights when it’s empty and instead open curtains to rely on natural light. Additionally, consider replacing incandescent light bulbs with energy-efficient products. LED bulbs last 25 percent longer while cutting energy consumption by up to 75 percent.
Reach for the Star
Today’s ENERGY STAR-certified products operate with lower temperatures, utilize solar power, conserve water, and perform other eco-friendly tasks that result in reduced energy consumption. Homeowners can save more than $100 a year when using ENERGY STAR-rated kitchen appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, and freezers, and throughout the rest of the house.
Open the Windows
When things heat up in the kitchen, try opening the windows instead of running the air conditioner or fan. And for additional savings, make sure windows are properly sealed with caulking and weather stripping to reduce heat loss/gain. Of course, installing energy-efficient windows is also a great way to make a difference with both the planet and your pocketbook. Replacing single-pane windows can result in savings of up to $465 a year, and even upgrading double-pane windows with energy-efficient models saves up to $111 annually.
Investing in energy-efficient windows is a great way to go green while saving green. That’s why Excel Fencing & Decking is proud to offer high-quality and affordable replacement windows. The attractive design and durable construction are enough fall in love with, but when you add the significant reduction in energy spending, this is one home improvement that is a clear winner.