Kansas City residents know how much a cold winter or hot summer can drive up home energy costs. Combined with the increasing number of electronics and smart devices we use every day, it’s no wonder energy consumption in the US has steadily increased for decades despite considerable improvements in efficiency. Take control of your home’s energy use with a few accessible, affordable ways to lower your monthly utility bills.
Easy Ways to Lower Your Home Energy Bill
Decreasing your home’s energy use starts with making small changes to the systems and appliances that use the most energy. More than 40% of residential energy use goes to heating and cooling, which means your HVAC system is the biggest opportunity to save money.
1. Get a Smart Thermostat
One of the most effective ways to improve home energy efficiency is to buy a smart thermostat. These devices are relatively affordable and may even qualify for theEnergy Efficient Home Improvement Credit program. Smart thermostats automatically adjust heating and cooling settings based on your preferences and habits. While performance varies, smart thermostats savehomeowners about 8% on yearly heating and cooling costs.
2. Maintain Your HVAC System
You can improve your home's energy efficiency and indoor air quality by maintaining your HVAC system. Keeping your HVAC system running smoothly requires an annual tune-up and replacing the air filter every one to three months. This will also reduce the risk of unexpected issues and make your whole home more comfortable!
3. Use Natural Heating and Cooling
You can help regulate the temperature inside your home by utilizing natural light and airflow. Open your curtains in the winter to allow sunlight to naturally warm your home. Close your curtains in the summer to block the sun's rays and keep your house cool. Additionally, open windows strategically to let in cool air during warmer months and close them to keep warm air inside during colder months.
Read more: Improve Indoor Air Quality with Minimal Expense
Know When to Invest in a More Energy-Efficient Home
When it’s time to replace HVAC equipment or appliances, prioritize energy efficiency by considering major upgrades, like.
Go for a Heat Pump
Many Kansas City-area homes choose heat pumps as a cost-effective way to substantially reduce energy use at home. On average, homeowners who switch to a heat pumpsave $370 per year, although your savings could be much higher if you’re replacing old, inefficient equipment.
Assess Your Home’s Insulation
If your home is older and you haven't had your insulation inspected within the past 10 to 15 years, it may be time to call a contractor. Home insulation degrades and loses effectiveness over time. A contractor can assess the condition of your current insulation and recommend updates. Add insulation to key areas to reduce energy waste, such as:
- Attics
- Basements
- Crawl spaces
Your Mission Plumbing Heating & Cooling technician can help you make energy-efficient home improvements more affordable by identifying the best options to save money and claim relevant rebates or tax credits.
How Much Energy Does the Average Home Use?
The average US home uses approximately 899 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per month, accumulating to around 10,500 kWh annually. However, this figure isn't set in stone; it can vary significantly based on several factors. The size of the home, the extent of heating and cooling (HVAC) usage, and the local climate all play a role in determining a household's energy consumption.
Additionally, the steady increase in average household energy consumption over time can be attributed to factors such as the trend toward larger homes and the increased use of electronic devices.
Work With Kansas City’s Home Energy Efficiency Experts!
Mission Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is your go-to source for all your home service needs. We proudly serve the greater Kansas City, Lenexa, and Overland Park areas. Our team of skilled professionals is dedicated to finding cost-effective solutions to help you lower your energy bills and increase your year-round comfort.
Contact our friendly team or call 913-347-5425 to schedule your appointment today. We look forward to helping you!