Whether you own or rent a home, both come with their fair share of expenses. However, the good news is that many of these costs aren’t fixed. With some simple changes, and potentially some upfront costs, you can permanently reduce a few of your recurring expenses. This is definitely the case with efficiency-enhancing projects.
Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to make a home more energy-efficient. Start by cleaning and changing your air conditioning filters. This simple task, according to the Department of Energy, can reduce air conditioning costs by 5 to 15%. You should also consider buying a programmable or smart thermostat. Programmable thermostats allow you to divide days into blocks and set temperatures for each. Smart thermostats also adjust the temperature to your preferences, routines, outside weather conditions, and even whether you are inside or outside the house.
Another tip you may want to consider is adding a shower timer that will go off after a period of time. This can encourage you to cut your showers shorter to conserve energy. Some smart shower timers automatically reduce the flow and then shut it off completely based on preset intervals.
Another option is to invest in a cool roof. The EPA estimates that homes with a cool roof see an average energy savings of $0.50 per square foot per year. Because this roof typically only costs up to $0.20 more per square foot to install, it could pay for itself repeatedly over the years.
Source: Money Crashers
We are ready to help you find the best possible mortgage solution for your situation. Contact Sheila Siegel at Synergy Financial Group today.
