With energy costs consistently rising year after year, many homeowners are looking for energy saving equipment to reduce their energy consumption and save money on their utility bills. Installing energy efficient equipment in your home can lead to substantial long-term savings, while also reducing your environmental impact.
Investing in energy efficient technology often requires an upfront cost, but the long-term energy savings will make up for that initial investment over time. Plus, there are often rebates and tax incentives available to help offset the upfront costs.
Table of Contents
Lighting energy saving equipment
LED Light Bulbs
One of the easiest ways to save energy at home is to switch your lighting over to LED light bulbs. LED bulbs use at least 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last 25 times longer. Replacing all of your home’s bulbs with LEDs can lead to a few hundred dollars in savings per year.
Occupancy Sensors
Installing occupancy sensor switches or motion detectors ensures lights only turn on when needed. Sensors detect motion in a room and automatically turn lights on or off based on occupancy. This prevents lights from being left on in unused rooms.
Daylight Sensors
Adding daylight harvesting sensors is another way to maximize natural light and reduce reliance on artificial lighting. Daylight sensors detect the amount of natural light in a space and adjust the brightness of the lights accordingly. This way lights dim automatically when ample sunlight is available.
Heating and Cooling energy saving equipment
Programmable Thermostats
One of the best tools for efficiency is a programmable thermostat, which allows you to customize the temperature throughout the day. Program it to reduce heating and cooling when not needed, such as when you are asleep or away at work. Adjustments of 7–10° F for 8 hours per day can save 5–15% on bills.
Insulation
Ensuring your home is properly insulated keeps hot/cold air from escaping and can lead to savings of 10-20% on heating and cooling costs. Consider adding insulation to attics, basements and crawl spaces that lack sufficient insulation.
Energy Efficient HVAC
Upgrading older AC units, furnaces, heat pumps and boilers to energy efficient models can drastically cut heating and cooling costs. New HVAC systems run more efficiently thanks to advanced compressors, motors and heat exchangers. Plus, they often come with smart technology and WiFi connectivity features.
Appliances energy saving equipment
EnergyStar Rated Appliances
When purchasing household appliances, look for the EnergyStar label. EnergyStar certified models meet stringent energy efficiency guidelines set by the EPA. Replacing old models with EnergyStar rated washers, dryers, dishwashers and refrigerators can lead to energy savings of 30% or more.
Smart Appliances
Many newer appliances also come with smart technology and connectivity capabilities. Features like smart sensors and automation allow appliances to operate more efficiently by fine-tuning cycles and delaying operation during peak energy demand times.
Water Heating energy saving equipment
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters only heat water as needed, unlike standard models that consistently maintain a tank of hot water. Their energy efficiency is up to 34% higher and they can save a typical household $100 or more per year on energy bills.
Solar Water Heaters
Solar water heating systems can supply 30–80% of residential hot water needs. They work by absorbing heat from sunlight on solar collectors and transferring it to heat water stored in tanks. This harnesses renewable solar energy rather than relying solely on electricity or gas.
Pipe Insulation
Insulating hot water pipes reduces heat loss as hot water travels to sinks, showers, appliances, etc. It’s an easy DIY upgrade that can save money wasted from moving heated water through uninsulated pipes.
Renewable Energy
Solar Panels
Installing solar panels allows you to generate clean, renewable electricity from sunlight and reduce reliance on the grid. Solar energy systems work through photovoltaic cells that convert sunlight into usable electric power. Plus, unused energy can be sent back to the grid through net metering programs.
Wind Turbines
Residential wind turbines can also offset electricity usage by capturing kinetic energy from wind and converting it into power. Their generation capacity depends on average wind speeds and tower height. While their upfront costs are high, they can offer great long-term energy savings.
Conclusion
Improving your home’s energy efficiency should focus on lighting, HVAC systems, appliances, water heating and renewable sources. Prioritize technologies with the best return on investment and longest usable lifespans. Be sure to take advantage of any rebates or incentives offered for energy efficient upgrades in your area. With the right improvements, you can realize major energy savings while also doing your part for the environment through reduced emissions.
FAQs
What are the most cost effective upgrades?
Programmable thermostats, LED light bulbs, and EnergyStar certified appliances offer some of the quickest payback times through energy savings. Insulation upgrades can also lead to good returns depending on existing insulation levels.
How much do energy efficient upgrades cost?
Costs vary considerably based on the technology, its size/capacity, and labor involved with installation. Some DIY solutions like LED bulbs or pipe insulation have fast paybacks for under $100. Major projects like HVAC replacement or solar panels can cost thousands but also dramatic cut usage.
What rebates are available for energy efficient upgrades?
State/local utilities and municipalities often have rebates for purchase of qualifying efficient equipment or renovations. Tax incentives like the federal solar ITC offer credits for percentage of system costs. Contact local providers to ask about current rebate/incentive programs.
Should I finance upgrades through loans?
Special financing tools like Property Assessed Clean Energy loans allow borrowers to pay back principal through property taxes for set time periods. This allows them to leverage future energy savings to cover costs over time.
How much can I realistically decrease my home energy usage?
Home energy use can be reduced 10-40% from efficiency upgrades, with higher savings possible through steps like full electrification from gas appliances or addition of renewables. An energy audit can provide customized savings estimate based on your home’s existing systems and recommended measures.
