When creating a luxury design, there are many ways to preserve precious resources. One way to be energy efficient is by starting with your appliances.

REFRIGERATOR

Old outdated refrigerators tend to eat up a lot of electricity.  Refrigerator’s use approximately 18% of your energy cost for your home.  A significant amount for one appliance. If your refrigerator is more than 10 years old, purchase a newer model. They contribute to global warming and by replacing can reduce this harmful effect to the Earth’s atmosphere.  Newer refrigerators can also use maintenance.  Cleaning out the condenser coils can help keep it running efficiently.  Also, test the seals of the fridge to make sure the cold inside isn’t escaping.

HOT WATER HEATER 

Similar to refrigerators, replace your water heater if more than 10 years old. The energy efficiency of a water heater is measured in Energy Factor or (EF).  The larger the number of EF, the more efficient the water heater is.   Tankless water heaters only heat water when it is needed, which is a great way to save energy.  This is a better option instead of keeping a reserve of water at a constant temperature, which burns a lot of fuel throughout the day.  This will save you space in your home as well. Since there is not a tank, the tankless unit is a box on a wall that saves valuable floor space.

FURNACE

Your home furnace is a large culprit of greenhouse gas emissions.  The furnace contributes to the largest portion of your energy bill. Before you replace your current furnace look at the rest of your home’s sources for leaking air sources and fix them first. Control the air in your home by checking the window and door seals.  Putting the furnace on overdrive due to a lack of care in the home is the most common reason for high energy bills.  Also, check the insulation in your home. Consider adding more insulation if you live in a home that heats or cools quickly depending on the temperature outside.   When all these factors are checked then potentially purchase a new furnace.  Though your furnace should be updated and efficient, it is probably more important that your house has the correct factors to keep in the heat or cool when needed.