There are probably more hidden home energy wasters in your house than you think. So, let’s face the most common power-hungry gremlins once and for all for greater peace of mind.
Poorly Insulated Doors and Windows
You’ve likely heard that modern devices zap the energy from your power outlets, and indeed, they can. But did you know that one of the biggest culprits is poor insulation? Poor insulation means heat can get out of the house, and the cold can get it. There are a few main areas where this happens, such as the windows, doors, attic, and lofts.
What can you do?
- Check your windows and doors annually to make sure the weatherstripping and caulk is still intact and functioning well.
- Turn off the HVAC and then walk around the house with a candle to see where the leaks might be lurking.
- A common uninsulated spot is around outlets. If you feel cold air breezing through, you might benefit from some spray foam insulation.
- An energy-efficient garage door installation, upgraded double-glazing and frames and resurfaced loft insulation make a huge difference.
Home Energy Wasters on Standby
Our devices have become monumentally important. However, some modern devices use up to 40 percent energy just by being on standby. Try these methods to reduce how much power is being consumed when you aren’t using them:
What can you do?
- Put your smartphones or tablets on low battery mode.
- Use timers and motion-sensors on lighting.
- Unplug small appliances when you aren’t using them.
- Add smart power strips so you can control them remotely. Some have timers.
Outdated Essential Appliances
There are also larger devices, like appliances, that we rely upon. These include the fridge, washing machine, and dishwasher. However, these, too, can be pretty power-hungry and end up wasting more (and costing more) as they get older.
What can you do?
- Properly maintain your appliances to get the most energy efficiency out of them. This means cleaning under and behind the refrigerator, cleaning inside the washing machine, cleaning the dishwasher and filter, and replacing other filters regularly.
- Experts recommend replacing a white appliance every 8 to 10 years. Modern replacements use a lot less energy and are built with stricter energy-efficiency standards.
Lighting Home Energy Wasters
It may not seem that important, but lighting can be one of the biggest home energy wasters. Energy is often wasted by people leaving lights turned on. However, older lighting fixtures and solutions, such as incandescent bulbs, will add to the wasted energy. Old bulbs are 90% less effective, while conversely, LED lighting can use up to 90% less electricity.
You can save money and contribute to eco-friendliness by using LED lighting. However, there are some LED lighting myths and half-truths out there, so do some research beforehand.
What can you do?
- Smart home controls make it much easier to manage home lighting. You can switch lights off remotely, set timers and profiles, and even ask an AI assistant to turn them on or off for you.
- LED lighting is more expensive than traditional bulbs. However, they lasts much longer, use far less energy, and can even be controlled using remote apps, making the case for the switch.
Leaking Pipes and Taps
Water is an essential part of daily modern life. We use it for cooking, hygiene, and plumbing. However, we waste water in homes everyday. About 180 gallons per week is wasted in a typical American household, which adds up to the amount of water needed to do 300 loads of laundry. Just letting a faucet run for 5 minutes can waste 10 gallons of water. That’s the energy equivalent of about 18 hours of a 60-watt light bulb.
What can you do?
- Run the dishwasher when it is full.
- Turn off the water while brushing teeth or shaving.
- While you might be mindful of water usage, leaking pipes and taps can be the culprit. Ensure your plumbing system is tight and sealed; otherwise, it can waste thousands of gallons per year.
Identifying Home Energy Wasters
A Consumer Focus study from 2011 found that 80% of renters and new home buyers ignore energy-saving advice and a 2024 study found that 57 percent of U.S. adults find barriers to having a more energy efficient home. They don’t know how to do it, think it’s too expensive, or just don’t think upgrades will save any money.
What can you do?
- If a room you don’t use is pretty warm, you are wasting heating energy in there. Close the vents to rooms that you aren’t using.
- Check if there are items you hardly use (like a toaster or blender) that are being left plugged in.
- Hire a professional energy expert to conduct a home energy audit and produce a report.
Improper Thermostat Use
Heating is vital for billions of people all over the world. Yet, with so many price increases, it is becoming a luxury for some. In fact, some states in the US and regions of the UK are experiencing fuel poverty.
What can you do?
- One way to reduce how much you spend on heating is with proper thermostat control. It should be placed in a location that’s not near a window or frequently used exterior door.
- Use a programmable thermostat so that you aren’t heating or cooling your home when you aren’t there. And you won’t have to remember to set it back for a more comfortable sleeping temperature.
- Maintain your HVAC system by following the guidance in your user’s manual, and by hiring a HVAC pro to get it checked regularly.
