Considering the fact the cost of electricity has so significantly increased in the last few years, it's every homeowner's priority to ascertain ways to cut down on energy consumption and invariably, costs. Having energy efficient home proves to be the biggest way to achieve that.

Over the years, a lot has changed in terms of lifestyle and living patterns. A few decades back, people didn't really care much energy consumption. Since natural resources were aplenty, energy costs weren't as high as it is now. But these days, conserving natural resources is the need of the hour and that's precisely the reason, more and more homeowners are opting to make their homes as energy efficient as they can.

energy efficient homes

Clearing the Biggest Notion

Some people have this notion that as soon as they switch to energy efficiency, they will start seeing a return on investments, but this isn't the case. The reality is that such things don't happen overnight; it requires careful planning and a meticulous approach. The biggest mistake people make is having certain notions about energy efficiency which are completely wrong.

Some of the Wrong Notions That People Have Are:-

Heaters and ACs Consume the Highest Amount of Energy

Although this statement would've been true a few decades ago, it isn't relevant now. The reason? Well, technology has advanced a lot in the last few years, and this has resulted in heating and cooling units which are much more energy efficient. So why the high electricity bills then?

Contrary to perception, electronic appliances like television sets, computers and lights are the ones which consume the highest amount of energy because they are used extensively.

The First Step of Energy Efficiency is Solar Panels

Since it's been advertised extensively that solar panels save a lot on electricity bills, many people perceive that it's the only way to do it. This obviously isn't true because although solar panels are great for energy efficiency, it's not for everyone. Considering the fact that initial cost of these panels is quite high, not everyone can afford them.

Some of the More Cost-effective Alternatives Are:-

  • Installing LED lights which are energy efficient
  • Using appliances which are energy efficient
  • Insulating walls, attics and floors
  • Duct Sealing

Ceiling Fans Should Be Left to Run in Order to Keep the Room Cool

This is a notion that many people have, especially those who don't have air conditioners in their house. Keeping and fan on thinking that the room temperature will go down is entirely far-fetched. What ceiling fans do is circulate the air around the room so that you feel cool. Unlike air conditioners, it doesn't lower the room's temperature. Precisely for this reason, if you keep the fan on, you will only be wasting energy.

So these are some of the false notions that most people have on residents that are energy efficient. If you are thinking of making your house energy efficient, you need to clear these notions. The key here is to invest considerable time in gathering all the information you can find on energy efficiency.

Author's Bio: 

The author is an expert in building energy-efficient homes. If you are looking to build one, he can certainly help you out.