Since 1970, we’ve recognized Earth Day on April 22nd. Initially, Earth Day inspired 20 million people to take action to protect the environment. Today, it inspires 1 billion people in over 190 countries. In fact, Earth Day is the largest secular observance in the world! With Earth Day just around the corner, there’s no better time to consider ways you can contribute and celebrate. There are many ways to improve energy efficiency in your home or office, including:
- Using LED light bulbs
- Turning off lights that aren’t in use
- Upgrading to ENERGY STAR appliances
- Utilizing automatic appliances (programmable thermostats, motion-sensor lights, etc.)
- Investing in window film
The Benefits of Energy Efficiency
Ahead of taking steps to improve energy efficiency, it’s essential to understand the why. Improving energy efficiency can contribute to protecting our planet by lowering greenhouse gas emissions, decreasing water use, and more. In addition to the environmental impact, energy efficiency can also reduce energy bills, stabilize electricity prices, lower overall electricity demand, and diversify utility resource portfolios. With all the benefits in mind, the reasons to invest in energy-saving measures are evident.
5 Energy-Saving Solutions
Switch to LED Lighting
A simple way to improve energy efficiency in your home or office is by swapping out traditional lightbulbs with LEDs. LEDs (light-emitting diodes) use at least 75% less energy in residential spaces and last 25 times longer than incandescent lighting! In addition, they can last longer and emit less heat than traditional lighting sources. Not to mention, they’re available in a variety of products for both residential and industrial use.
Turn Off the Lights
One of the simplest ways to lower energy bills and boost efficiency is by turning off the lights when they aren’t in use! Try to get in the habit of turning off the lights whenever you leave a room—while seemingly minor, doing so can have a lasting impact over time. Electricity use is one of the most significant sources of carbon emissions. By hitting the switch when lights aren’t in use, you can lower your energy bill and carbon footprint.
Utilize Automatic Appliances
Today, many products and appliances can be set to turn on at certain times, whether it’s scheduled or utilizes a motion sensor. For instance, many commercial spaces have invested in motion-sensor lights! This can help save energy, extend the life of lights, and increase convenience. Another automatic appliance worth investing in is a programmable thermostat. Programmable thermostats allow you to have complete control of your home or office’s interior temperature, creating a schedule that can save you money and prolong the life of your HVAC system.
Upgrade to ENERGY STAR Appliances
When investing in your home or office, consider using ENERGY STAR appliances. ENERGY STAR is a label on products certifying that they meet energy-efficiency requirements outlined by the Environmental Protection Agency. Products with this label can help you improve energy efficiency and save on your energy bills without sacrificing performance! From washers and dryers to air purifiers and refrigerators, this label can be found on over 65 different kinds of products.
Invest in Window Film
While windows are highly desired in homes and offices, they can deplete the efficiency of your space. The sun’s light can enter through windows, creating uncomfortable hot spots and glare. In the winter, an inefficient window may have difficulty retaining manmade heat. As a result, HVAC systems work hard to maintain the desired interior temperature, driving up energy costs and causing excessive wear and tear to units.
Window film can reject the sun’s heat and minimize glare, creating comfortable interior temperatures, improving energy efficiency, and lowering energy bills. Products like Low-E window film can improve window insulation, allowing for comfortable temperatures and energy savings year-round. In addition to improving energy efficiency, window film offers numerous benefits, including:
- Protection against harmful UV rays
- Minimized glare
- Improved occupant comfort
- Prolong the life of HVAC systems
- Add points to commercial buildings’ LEED Credits
Browse Our Sun Control Window Film Products
From upgrading appliances to investing in energy-saving solutions like window film, there are various ways you can improve energy efficiency in your home or office. If you’re interested in investing in window film, contact us to talk to one of our window film experts!
New York Window Film provides high-quality products and window film installations to Metropolitan New York, Long Island, New Jersey, and Connecticut. With window film solutions for both residential and commercial spaces, our products can help you achieve anything from sun control and security to decorative enhancement and privacy. Call us at (631) 420-4101 or (212) 256-1414 for more information, or request a quote online.