As energy costs continue to rise, many homeowners in Virginia Beach are looking for ways to make your home more energy efficient. Improving energy efficiency helps reduce your utility bills and contributes to a more sustainable environment. At Zhe Industries, we are the only Hampton Roads Certified Energy Expert offering trusted solutions for a greener home. Here are some practical steps to enhance your home’s energy efficiency.
Start with a Home Energy Audit
A home energy audit is one of the most effective ways to identify areas where you can save energy. Dominion Energy provides comprehensive home energy audits, which can pinpoint specific areas in your home that could be improved. During the audit, a contractor will evaluate your home’s insulation, ductwork, and overall energy usage. This detailed assessment helps you understand your home’s energy flow and offers recommendations tailored to your needs.
Implement Simple Changes
Once you’ve identified areas for improvement, start with some simple changes:
- Upgrade to LED Bulbs Replace incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LED lights. LEDs use significantly less energy and last much longer, providing substantial savings over time.
- Smart Thermostat Installation A smart thermostat can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 15%. It learns your habits and adjusts the temperature automatically, ensuring optimal energy use even when you're not at home.
- Seal Leaks and Add Insulation Properly sealing leaks and adding insulation can significantly affect your home's energy efficiency. This prevents heated or cooled air from escaping, so your HVAC system doesn't have to work as hard.
Embrace More Energy Efficient Appliances
Appliances like washers, dryers, and dishwashers consume a lot of energy. If you’re on time-of-use rates, consider using them during off-peak hours. Also, opt for air-drying your clothes and dishes when possible, which can drastically reduce energy consumption.
Utilize Power Strips
Plugging appliances and electronic devices into a power strip makes it easy to turn them off when not in use. Many devices draw power even when turned off, so a power strip can help eliminate this phantom energy use.
Professional Guidance and Rebates
After implementing the above changes, consider consulting with professionals for further insights. Dominion Energy offers rebates for specific more energy efficient upgrades, making it more affordable to implement recommended improvements.
Take Advantage of Rewards Programs
By following these strategies and taking advantage of available resources, you can significantly reduce energy consumption and save money on utility bills. Contact Zhe Industries today for more information on how we can assist you in making your Virginia Beach home more energy efficient.
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