Thanksgiving is just a few weeks away and, with the growing anticipation of the holidays comes cooler temperatures here on Lake Nacimiento. For those of you who live or vacation on our shores, you know that our Lake Nacimiento communities are committed to preserving our beautiful, natural environment. There are multiple ways we do this throughout our community, but did you know you can play an important role in keeping Lake Nacimiento an eco-friendly place to live?
Here are a few great ways you can maintain an eco-friendly environment in your own home on Lake Nacimiento this fall and winter season. The added perk? This can also save you hundreds of dollars in energy costs!
1. Set the Timer– Set your thermostat to lower temperatures while you’re away from your Oak Shores or Heritage Ranch home or while you’re sleeping. This will automatically help reduce energy used as well as costs just by programming your thermostat.
2. Change Your Filter– Clogged filters can be the largest culprit for airflow inefficiency. Clogged filters also hold onto dust, dander, mold and spores that are magnified when all the windows are closed and the heat is being used in the cooler months.
Generally, the fiberglass filters should be changed monthly, pleated filters every three months and HEPA style filters every 12 months. This depends upon how often you use your air conditioner and other factors such a pets or a smoker in the house. Learn more about filters and what type you need to get as a replacement on Filters.USA.com.
3. Let the Sunshine In– During the day, be sure to leave blinds and curtains open to let in the sunlight and natural heat. At night, shut them to help “trap” the warmth.
4. Light a Fire– It’s amazing how a fire in your fireplace can heat up a room instantly! Consider lowering your thermostat on cooler evenings and lighting a fire instead. You’ll instantly feel cozier in your Lake Nacimiento home.
5. Bundle Up– Feeling chilled? Instead of turning up the thermostat, throw on a pair of socks or an extra layer. These small choices to not turn up the heat can really add up in energy savings!
6. Switch our Your Lights– From lamps to the Christmas tree, all of your lights can be changed out for energy efficient LED lights! With the sun setting earlier, you’ll be using your indoor lights more often. Also, the festivity of the season’s decorations can spike energy bill. LED Christmas lights can cut back on costs and energy usage.
7. Stop Leaks– Check all doors and windows for drafts. You can easily seal windows and doors to prevent the warm air from your Lake Nacimiento home escaping while making sure the cool air doesn’t leak in!
8. Unplug– Not using an appliance? Unplug it! The Department of Energy notes that, even if appliances are not being used, they are still using energy. 40% of electricity used for your home electronics is used when they’re turned off, but still plugged in. Getting in the habit of unplugging will prove to be a smart habit in the long run!
I hope these tips help inspire you with ways you can be caring for your home and the environment during the cooler months, and to save money along the way!
If you don’t currently own a home in Oak Shores or Heritage Ranch, but have been considering moving to Lake Nacimiento, please let me know! I would be happy to help you navigate the Lake Nacimiento Real Estate market and buy your dream home!
Grace Borzini
Your Local Lake Nacimiento Real Estate Expert
Oak Shores Realty
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Oak Shores Realty specializes in Oak Shores at Lake Nacimiento properties. Please contact us today to get more information on Lake Nacimiento lake homes. Oak Shores Realty can also provide you an insiders “Lake Nacimiento Buying Guide” with great information including maps and market information.
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