Energy Saving Decor Tips

Energy-savvy homeowners know that maintaining caulking and weatherstripping is essential to reducing energy costs. But many might not realize that the wallpaper they choose or where they place that bookcase can also affect energy costs.

Here are some tips to help you create an energy-efficient decor in your home:

• Place large, heavy furniture – such as armoires, bookcases and wall units – against outside walls to help insulate them.
• Place televisions, gaming consoles, stereos and other electronics on interior walls to take advantage of the heat they generate.
• Choose couches and chairs with legs, which allow air to circulate freely.
• Avoid pushing furniture directly against the wall. Leave a few inches between the wall and the back of the couch to increase air circulation.
• During the summer, leave some space between furniture pieces to promote circulation; leave less space in winter to increase warmth.
• Lamps placed in corners will do double duty by reflecting light off two walls instead of one.
• Use thermal wallpaper to decorate outside walls in a room.
• Decorative rugs and tapestries not only beautify a space, but they also act as insulators when hung on exterior walls.
• Using light colours on walls and ceilings will help reflect 80 per cent of the light that strikes them; dark colours reflect only 10 per cent.
• Installing ceiling fans will not only provide a refreshing summer breeze, it will help save up to 40 per cent on summer cooling costs. In the winter, set the fans on reverse to push down and re-circulate warm air.
• The location of appliances can also affect their energy efficiency. Avoid locating refrigerators near a vent, stove, radiator, or direct sunlight.
• Make sure furniture is not blocking heating ducts or cold-air returns.

With a little energy know-how, you can create a beautiful but energy-efficient living space all year round.

Source: Homservice Club of Canada