How to Use Decor to Make Your Home More Energy-Efficient?

As a homeowner, I know that finding ways to save money on energy bills is always at the top of my mind.

And while I may have already taken steps to make my home more energy-efficient, such as installing energy-efficient appliances or upgrading my insulation, I recently learned that there are also ways to boost energy savings with decor choices.

From choosing energy-efficient lighting to selecting low-emission furniture, the decor choices we make in our homes can have a significant impact on our energy bills and carbon footprint.

In this article, I’ll share tips and tricks on how to make your home more energy-efficient with decor choices and show you how to save money on energy bills while reducing your carbon footprint.

Why do Decor Choices Matter

According to the U.S.

Department of Energy, lighting accounts for about 10% of a typical home’s energy consumption.

And while energy-efficient lightbulbs can certainly help, the type and placement of lighting fixtures in our homes also play a role.

In addition, the furniture we choose can also affect our energy consumption.

For example, low-emission furniture can help reduce indoor air pollution, which in turn can improve indoor air quality and reduce the need for heating and cooling.

So, while it may seem small, the decor choices we make in our homes can have a big impact on our energy bills and carbon footprint.

13 Tips and Tricks for Boosting Energy Savings with Decor Choices

Choose Energy-Efficient Lighting

When it comes to lighting, the first step to boosting energy savings is to choose energy-efficient light bulbs.

LED bulbs, for example, use 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last up to 25 times longer.

But energy-efficient lightbulbs are just the beginning.

Another way to boost energy savings with lighting is to choose fixtures that are designed to maximize energy efficiency.

For example, recessed lighting can help to reduce the amount of heat generated by light fixtures, which in turn can help to reduce energy consumption.

Use Natural Light

Another way to boost energy savings with lighting is to take advantage of natural light.

By putting windows and skylights in your home in the right places, you can use less artificial light during the day.

In addition, consider using window treatments that can be adjusted to allow more or less natural light into your home.

For example, using sheer curtains or blinds can help to diffuse natural light, which can help to reduce the need for artificial lighting.

Select Low-Emission Furniture

Another way to boost energy savings with decor choices is to select furniture that has a low-emission rate.

Low-emission furniture can help to reduce indoor air pollution, which in turn can improve indoor air quality and reduce the need for heating and cooling.

When shopping for furniture, look for items that are made from natural materials, such as wood or cotton, rather than synthetic materials.

Also, think about buying energy-efficient furniture, like pieces that are easy to take apart and put back together for cleaning or replacing.

Use Rugs and Carpets

Rugs and carpets can also help to boost energy savings by insulating the floor and reducing the need for heating and cooling.

In addition, rugs and carpets can help to improve indoor air quality by trapping pollutants and allergens.

When choosing rugs and carpets, look for natural materials, such as wool or cotton, rather than synthetic materials.

In addition, consider buying rugs and carpets that are designed to be energy-efficient, such as those made from recycled materials or those that are naturally resistant to stains and spills.

Use Energy-Efficient Window Treatments

Another way to boost energy savings with decor choices is to use energy-efficient window treatments.

For example, using insulated curtains or shades can help to reduce the amount of heat lost through windows, which can help to reduce energy consumption.

In addition, consider using window treatments that can be adjusted to allow more or less natural light into your home.

For example, using sheer curtains or blinds can help to diffuse natural light, which can help to reduce the need for artificial lighting.

Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances

When it comes to appliances, the first step to boosting energy savings is to choose energy-efficient models.

For example, Energy Star-certified appliances are designed to use less energy than standard models.

But energy-efficient appliances are just the beginning.

Another way to boost energy savings with appliances is to use them wisely.

For example, using the dishwasher or washing machine only when it is full can help to reduce energy consumption.

Use Power Strips

Another way to boost energy savings with decor choices is to use power strips.

Power strips can help to reduce standby power consumption, which can help to reduce energy consumption.

When shopping for power strips, look for models that are designed to reduce standby power consumption, such as those with built-in timers or those that can be controlled remotely.

Use Solar-Powered Decor

Another way to boost energy savings with decor choices is to use solar-powered decor.

For example, using solar-powered outdoor lighting can help to reduce energy consumption.

In addition, consider using solar-powered chargers for devices such as smartphones and tablets.

Use Decorative Plants

Decorative plants can also help save energy by improving the quality of the air inside and making it less important to heat and cool the room.

When choosing decorative plants, look for varieties that are known to improve indoor air quality, such as snake plants or spider plants.

Use Sustainable Materials

Another way to boost energy savings with decor choices is to use sustainable materials.

For example, using sustainable materials such as bamboo or cork can help to reduce energy consumption.

Also, think about making things like vases and candle holders out of recycled plastic or glass that are good for the environment.

Use Energy-Efficient Electronics

Another way to boost energy savings with decor choices is to use energy-efficient electronics.

For example, using energy-efficient TVs or computers can help to reduce energy consumption.

Also, think about using energy-efficient appliances like air purifiers or dehumidifiers to improving the quality of the air inside your home.

Use Smart Home Devices

Another way to boost energy savings with decor choices is to use smart home devices.

For example, using smart thermostats or smart lights can help to reduce energy consumption.

Also, think about using smart home devices like smart plugs or smart power strips to control how much power is used when something is on standby.

Use Insulation

Another way to boost energy savings with decor choices is to use insulation.

Insulation in walls, floors, and ceilings, for example, can help reduce energy consumption.

You could also use insulation in things like curtains or rugs to make the insulation better.

Last Thoughts

In conclusion, boosting energy savings with decor choices is a great way to save money on energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint.

From choosing energy-efficient lighting to selecting low-emission furniture, there are many ways to make your home more energy-efficient.

By implementing these tips and tricks, you can make a real difference in your energy consumption and make your home more comfortable and sustainable.

As a homeowner, it’s important to be mindful of the decor choices we make and to make sustainable decisions that will benefit us in the long run.

Remember that every small step we take towards a more energy-efficient home can make a big difference in the long run.