Smart Moves: Energy-Efficient Tips for New Homeowners and Renters

1. Check the age of your new home. If you’re moving to an older home, consider getting a professional energy audit or performing an audit yourself.  Older homes tend to be less energy-efficient. They often have outdated insulation, inefficient appliances, and older heating and air conditioning systems. An energy audit can help you identify areas of the home where you may be wasting energy and can give you recommendations on how to make the home more energy-efficient.
2. Purchase energy-efficient devices, such as programmable thermostats or water-efficient showerheads. If you’re moving into a new home or apartment, you’ll want to consider the energy efficiency of the appliances and other devices. Newer products are designed to use less energy, which can help you reduce energy bills. Look for products with the ENERGY STAR label, which means the product meets Environmental Protection Agency energy efficiency guidelines.
3. Consider installing ceiling fans or using portable fans. Installing ceiling fans throughout your home can help reduce your energy bill. If you use air conditioning to cool your home, your ceiling fan will allow you to raise the thermostat setting by around 4 degrees Fahrenheit without sacrificing comfort. Ceiling fans create a gentle breeze that increases air circulation, making your home feel cooler. If installing a ceiling fan isn’t feasible, consider purchasing a portable fan to create a similar windchill effect.

Whether you rent or own your home, making your new living space more energy-efficient can improve your comfort while helping you save on your energy bills. Additionally, your energy company may offer rebates or incentives for making energy efficient investments. Learn more about saving energy at home with helpful tips from Virginia Energy Sense.