How to stop energy drain in your home

Are your utility bills higher than expected? Inefficient energy use in your home might be the reason. Some electronics and appliances use power even when they're off, quietly increasing your costs. Luckily, simple changes can cut energy use, make your home more eco-friendly, and lower your monthly bills.

Where does energy drain hide?

• Phantom power: Many electronics, from TVs and game consoles to phone chargers and microwaves, continue to draw a small amount of power even when switched off. This "phantom power" adds up over time, costing you money and extra energy use.

• Inefficient appliances: Older appliances, especially refrigerators and freezers, may be working overtime to maintain temperature. Replacing them with newer, energy-star certified models can make a big difference.

• Heating and cooling leaks: Draughty windows, unsealed doors, and poorly insulated attics can force your HVAC system to work harder, wasting energy.

• Lighting habits: Leaving lights on in unoccupied rooms or relying on incandescent bulbs are surefire ways to see your energy bill rise.

Easy steps to save energy

1. Power down electronics completely

Unplugging unused electronics is a simple yet effective way to reduce energy consumption. Avoid relying on standby mode for devices such as TVs, game consoles, computers, and phone chargers, as they continue to draw power even when not in active use. To streamline this process, consider using power strips with on/off switches, allowing you to easily control multiple devices at once. 

Additionally, be mindful of "always-on" features in newer electronics, particularly televisions, which may have automatic updates or program recording functions running in the background. Check your device settings and disable these features if they are not necessary, further conserving energy and reducing your electricity bill.

2. Upgrade your appliances

Investing in energy-efficient models is a smart choice when shopping for new appliances. Look for the Energy Star label, which indicates that the model is specifically designed to use less energy while maintaining full functionality. It's also essential to maintain your existing appliances to ensure they operate efficiently. 

Regularly cleaning dust from refrigerator coils and replacing air filters in HVAC systems can significantly improve their efficiency and prevent them from working harder than necessary. This maintenance not only saves energy but also extends the lifespan of your appliances.

3. Seal up the leaks

Caulking windows and doors is a crucial step in reducing energy loss, as draughty openings can lead to significant inefficiencies. By sealing these gaps with caulk, you can notably decrease energy use, especially in extreme temperatures, ensuring that your home remains comfortable while conserving energy. 

4. Let there be efficient light

Switch to LED bulbs to benefit from efficient lighting that uses significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and has a much longer lifespan. Embracing natural light is another excellent strategy; open curtains and blinds during the day to make the most of sunlight, reducing the need for artificial lighting. 

Installing occupancy sensors can greatly enhance energy efficiency. These sensors automatically turn lights on when someone enters a room and off when it's vacant, making them ideal for areas like hallways, closets, and laundry rooms.

5. Develop energy-saving habits

Unplugging chargers when not in use, adjusting your thermostat, air drying clothes, and shortening shower times can all contribute to energy conservation. Phone chargers draw a small amount of power even when not actively charging. Air drying clothes on a drying rack instead of a dryer conserves energy and extends garment life. 

Shortening shower times also saves energy as every minute spent in a hot shower requires extra energy to heat the water. These small adjustments can lead to substantial energy conservation.

Making small changes in your everyday routine can significantly impact your energy use. But imagine living in a home designed with energy efficiency in mind. At Knight Frank, we specialise in connecting you with properties that prioritise sustainability. Contact us today and let our experts help you find a dream home that's not only stylish but also kind to the planet.