When you make your home more energy-efficient, not only do you contribute to increased longevity of environmental resources, but you also put money in your wallet. And as a by-product, oftentimes everyone in your green home will become healthier and live more comfortably. As US homes have increased in square footage by 30% since 2000, being energy efficient in the home has not been more important than it is now. Projects to make your home energy efficient can range from a big, demanding solar panel installation to simply changing the temperate settings on your water heater. There are several ways to make your home more energy-efficient, and 3 Maids covers three ways that are most helpful. And as always, 3 Maids is available for cleaning services in all of West LA.
(1) With half of your utility bill coming from heating and cooling systems, insulation is one of the most important features of a green home. When cracks and unsealed openings are prominent throughout a home, your winters could be drafty and your summers sultry; even when using your AC system or space heater. A blower-door test will pinpoint the exact spots in your home that need insulation the most. If you don’t hire a professional to seal the spots, use latex caulk for smaller openings that measure up to about 3/8 of an inch, use expanding urethane foam for openings that measure up to about an inch, and use drywall to plug up large openings. And to get the most from your AC and space heater, change the air filters at least once every three months, preferably sooner.
Save money by having a green home. Save time by using our cleaning services.
(2) Change your light bulbs to compact fluorescent lights (CFLs). While still delivering the same amount of light as a traditional incandescent bulb, they are the most energy-efficient. Depending on the circumstances, there are different types of CFLs that could be appropriate. By replacing just five bulbs, you could save about $75 a year in utility bills – convert those savings into an investment for a cleaner home with our cleaning services!
(3) Replace your appliances with ENERGY STAR certified appliances. Your appliances are a large part of your electricity bill as well, accounting for almost 15% of the expense. When you buy a home appliance, the price tag is more than your initial purchase — the amount of electricity it’ll cost you becomes part of that price tag as well. An ENERGY STAR certification helps you know that the ultimate price tag will be lower than non-certified appliances.
These are basic guidelines for building a green home. Every room in your home could use energy-efficient improvements. Also, every room in your home needs proper cleaning services. For a green home, follow these steps. For a clean home, contact us as your go-to Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Venice cleaning services.
