Homeownership is a costly endeavor. With this in mind, it’s helpful to cut costs wherever possible! One of the easiest places to start? Lowering energy bills. With the ever-growing importance of energy efficiency, many solutions are available today. Not to mention, there are many steps to lower energy bills that are as simple as unplugging unused technology. With these tips, you can improve the energy efficiency of your home and save a little money while you’re at it!
Unplug It
Did you know that even when some electronics are off, if they’re plugged in, they can still be using energy! This is called “vampire power”, appliances that utilize power even when they’re off. In fact, vampire power accounts for as much as 20% of your monthly bill. From computers and TVs to gaming consoles and phone chargers, we often have more electronics than we realize! To avoid unnecessary expenses, try to remember to unplug electronics when they aren’t in use. Or, to keep it simple, purchase power strips so that you can turn off multiple power sources at once.
Swap Out Your Lighting
Did you know that lighting can account for about 15% of your electricity bill? With that being said, try swapping out your traditional light bulbs with LEDs. LEDs use up to 90% less energy than incandescent lightbulbs. Not to mention, they last up to 25 times longer! This simple switch can save you money on your energy bills and also save you from having to replace lightbulbs as often.
Clean Your Air Filter
Cleaning your air filter is oftentimes a chore left forgotten. However, it can not only put your air quality at risk but also your comfort and your HVAC system. If the filter is clogged, HVAC systems have to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. As a result, you’ll not only feel uncomfortable, but you’ll also notice increased energy bills. As a general rule of thumb, you should be replacing your air filter every 1 to 3 months.
Invest in Window Film
While there are many ways to lower energy bills, one of the easiest ways to improve the energy efficiency of your space is by investing in window film! 3M offers sun control window films to address a variety of issues like temperature control, energy efficiency, and more. As a result, occupants will not only enjoy comfortable interior temperatures, but you’ll also notice lower energy bills!
3M Sun Control Window Film: How Does it Work?
3M Sun Control Window Film can be applied to existing windows, offering features like temperature control, energy efficiency, UV protection, and reduced glare. Windows, while highly desirable in homes, can pose many problems. The sun’s light can heat up interiors and create glare. Not to mention, ultraviolet rays from the sun can cause furnishings to fade over time. Luckily, sun control window film provides:
Temperature Control
Sun control window film allows plenty of natural light within your home, without the uncomfortable temperatures. It rejects the sun’s heat so that occupants can enjoy comfortable interior temperatures. In fact, 3M Prestige Window Film has the ability to reject up to 97% of the sun’s infrared heat! No matter what sun control film you select, know that you’ll be able to enjoy a naturally lit, comfortable home.
Improved Energy Efficiency
Not only does sun control window film provide temperature control, but in doing so, it can improve the energy efficiency of your space. By rejecting the sun’s heat, window film takes some of the work off of HVAC systems as they try to maintain the interior temperature. The result? Increased comfort and lower energy bills.
UV Protection & Glare Reduction
UV rays can cause furnishings, flooring, and artwork to fade. Luckily, sun control window film can reject up to 99% of UV rays to prolong the life of your furnishings and preserve their appearance. Not to mention, the Skin Cancer Foundation even recommends window film as an optimal UV protectant for occupants of your home. Sun control window film can also minimize glare, allowing for a more comfortable environment for occupants.
There are many ways to lower energy bills in your home. From opting for LED light bulbs to investing in a comprehensive solution like window film, try taking these steps to improve efficiency and lower your energy bills.
New York Window Film provides high-quality products and window film installations to Metropolitan New York, Long Island, New Jersey, and Connecticut. With window film solutions for both residential and commercial spaces, our products can help you achieve anything from sun control and security to decorative enhancement and privacy. Call us at (631) 420-4101 or (212) 256-1414 for more information, or click here for a no-obligation estimate.
