Tough economies like we face today with high gas and other basic needs prices, means tough times for many. So fight back with tough measures, making home improvements to help you pull through.

Lighting is a big issue with regards to saving energy. Of course we need lighting for many activities; however, the type of lighting, the amount of lighting and how that lighting is generated can make an overall good amount of difference in the way of energy conservation. 

Conserving Energy with Improved Lighting

The best possible light for you to use within your home to conserve lights is that of the sun.  Anytime that you can get the sun into the windows to light up your home, the better off that you are.  The sun is free and it can also work to heat up your home during the winter as well.  If you have heavy drapes on your windows, consider removing or moving them so that you can easily allow the sun to flow in and therefore you can keep the lights off within the home.

When the sun is not cooperating with your needs, there are other things to consider as well.  Energy conservation in the way of the type of lighting you use is your next big consideration.  If you invest in Energy Star quality bulbs you will spend a little more to purchase them but they will outlast most other bulbs.  In addition, they use a considerably less amount of energy to turn on and to run.  That means that they are going to provide just as much light but without nearly as much power and for a much longer period of time.  Consider fluorescent light bulbs as a main source of power for your home.

Turn off the lights when you are not in a room and keeping their usage to a minimum.  To save even more, consider using solar powered lighting fixtures outdoors instead of electric versions.  This is yet another way that you can save with lighting.  Invest a bit of time in finding the right lighting sources for your home as you do not have to live in the dark.  Then, use them correctly and reap the energy conserving that you will be doing.

Conserving Energy with Improved Windows

An estimated 35 to 60% of your energy loss comes directly from the windows in your home.  If you have poor quality windows or you do not have the right seals around them, you are simply losing money.  Since windows are something you do not want to give up, there are several ways that you can learn to improve them to get the most out of them.

•    During the winter months to prevent energy loss, consider purchasing air tight window coverings.  These are inexpensive and offer an extra layer of protection in keeping the cold out and the heat in your home.

•    If you have very leaky or old windows, you must consider if it is time to consider replacing.  Should you do so, consider Energy Star quality windows.  These will save you the most money in the long run.  High quality, double pane windows are necessary to keep the cold out and the heat in (or the other way around in the summer.)

•    Closely inspect both the outside and the inside of the window.  If you find loose fittings, missing caulking or any broken panes, fix them as soon as possible.  These are all leaking out your energy needs.

•    Lock your windows they are supposed to be closed.  Just that tiny little gap can provide enough energy loss to show considerably on your next heating bill.

•    Take a candle, light it and run it along the closed windows on a windy day.  When you do this, you will see the flame flicker if there is a leak in the windows and the air is getting in.  If this happens, take the time to properly seal the window to prevent energy loss through this crack.
 
Some basic home improvements can certainly help your wallet and the economy with energy conservation. So reach out, learn more and take charge of your home and home improvement projects.