5 Ways To Save Energy in Regina Homes

Energy costs can pile up, especially during extreme temperatures. However, there are ways to reduce energy use and save money. For example, an electrician in Regina can upgrade your systems to run more efficiently. You can also adopt energy-saving habits. With a combination of the two, you can reduce your carbon footprint and the burden on your wallet.

1. Turn Off the Lights

Lighting is essential for comfort, but it often gets forgotten — for instance, family members may forget to flip the switch when they leave the room. Fortunately, there are a wide variety of ways to reduce light use without resigning yourself to the dark.

One fantastic option is smart lighting. These fixtures connect to your home hub, allowing you to turn them on and off with a verbal command. You can even use a mobile app to turn lights on and off while away from home. Homeowners also have the option to set timers, which is excellent for playrooms and other areas where kids might forget to turn off the lights.

For outdoor lighting, consider motion-activated fixtures. These double as security, as they can detour criminals casing your property.

2. Let in the Sunshine

Another fantastic way to cut down on electric lighting is by utilizing sunshine. Natural light offers a long list of benefits, such as improved focus, higher levels of happiness and better sleep. Best of all, it’s free!

The easiest way to increase natural light is to pull back the curtains and open the shades. If you’re worried about sunlight heating the house, you can install shade screens or get reflective window treatments.

If you don’t have large windows or your location is often overcast, you can optimize the sunlight you get with decor:

• Mirrors

• Gloss or semi-gloss wall paint finishes

• Light interior paint colours

3. Unplug Electronics

Some electronics consume energy even when they’re off:

• Phone, laptop and tablet chargers

• Lamps

• Printers, monitors and power strips

• Stereos and speakers

• DVD players and televisions

• Toasters, coffee machines and microwaves

While plugging in these items every time you use them may feel inconvenient, it’s worth the savings. If you have trouble remembering to unplug appliances, try connecting several to one power strip, allowing you to disconnect several items with one plug.

4. Adjust the Thermostat

Your HVAC system is, by and large, the biggest source of energy consumption. However, you can take steps to boost its efficiency. For example, eliminating drafts prevents outside air from impacting your home’s temperature. Doors and windows are common culprits, as they can warp over time, creating small spaces where air can leak through the frame. Weatherstripping ensures doors and windows are airtight.

You can also make an impact by adjusting your thermostat to a higher temperature. If this is too uncomfortable, you can try raising the thermostat when you leave the house and turning it down when you get back. Many thermostats also come with timers and scheduling options, so you can set the AC to turn on during the hottest part of the day, then settle at a higher temperature in the evening.

5. Utilize Task Lighting

When working at a desk or craft table, you can skip the overhead light in favor of task lighting. These fixtures come in several forms:

• Under-cabinet lighting

• Table lamps

• Floor lamps

• Pendant lights

• Wall-mounted lights

These smaller options conserve energy and also function as decor. To get the most out of these fixtures, use LED bulbs, which are more efficient and produce less heat.

Handyman Connection is here to help homeowners improve their residences’ energy efficiency. We offer electrical repair services as well as floor replacement, home maintenance and drywall installation. For more information, give us a call or contact us online.