It’s no surprise that the start of hurricane season on the New Jersey Coast is also National Preparedness Month. So, this September, we should all take the time to think ahead and take the steps necessary to help protect our homes in case of extreme weather or other unexpected situations. However, when we think of preparedness, most of us believe that that means checklists, emergency kits, and safety drills, which are all important. However, what many people don’t realize is that energy efficiency and preparedness often go hand in hand. The same upgrades and habits that lower your monthly bills can also make your home more resilient if the worst should happen.
Here are a few energy-smart strategies that strengthen everyday comfort while providing an added layer of preparedness.
Routine maintenance keeps you ready
A heating system that’s well cared for can not only save money, but it also means your system is less likely to have a break down at critical times of need. Scheduling an annual inspection will ensure that your furnace or boiler is running at peak performance, while also reducing wasted energy and catching small issues before they turn into costly problems.
An added bonus to routine maintenance is when extreme cold or a winter storm arrives, you can rest assured that your system will respond the way it should. Think of it as one of the most important investments you can make for both your comfort and peace of mind.
Weatherization = Efficiency + Resilience
When it comes to home energy, little leaks can add up. The drafts around your windows and doors will force your system to work harder, raising energy use and bills. Simple fixes like caulking, weather stripping, or adding insulation can keep your home comfortable year-round.
But weatherization does more than save money, it also helps in an emergency. If a long power outage occurs, your well-sealed and insulated home will hold its temperature for a lot longer than one that isn’t. That extra time can make a big difference in keeping your family warm and safe until service is restored.
Smart thermostats make smart households
There is a good reason that programmable and smart thermostats are popular, today. Their well-known for their ability to reduce energy costs, because they automatically adjust temperatures when you’re either asleep or away. But they also add a flexibility that supports preparedness.
With a smart thermostat, you can monitor your home’s temperature remotely during severe weather or after an outage. That means you can check whether your system has restarted properly and adjust your settings on the fly, if needed. It’s an extra layer of control that’s especially valuable in unpredictable situations.
Lighting that’s safe and lasts
Switching to LED lighting is one of the easiest and most effective efficiency upgrades. They use up to 90% less energy than traditional bulbs and can last up to 25 times longer. Over time, that means big savings.
But during emergencies, LEDs are useful, because they shine brighter for longer on backup energy sources like generators, solar chargers, or battery banks. Choosing efficient lighting today can ensure your family has a dependable light source that isn’t a dangerous candle when you need it most.
Round out your plan with smart essentials
Even the most efficient home benefits from a few simple backup tools. Consider adding these to your preparedness kit:
- LED flashlights with extra batteries
- A portable or solar-powered phone charger
- Nonperishable food and bottled water for at least three days
- A written list of important contacts, including your utility provider
If you pair your everyday energy-saving habits with these essentials, your family would be well covered for both routine comfort and unexpected events.
Building a safer future
The old saying that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, has never been truer. Preparedness is about making thoughtful choices today that protect your home against worst case scenarios. When you invest in sealing drafts, maintaining your equipment, upgrading to efficient lighting, and installing smart thermostats, you’re reducing energy use every day while also giving your family added confidence in the face of the unexpected.
Efficiency and preparedness go hand in hand. So, this National Preparedness Month, take a moment to combine the two and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is ready for whatever comes next.
Ready to Prepare Smarter?
Preparedness and efficiency go hand in hand. Visit the South Jersey Gas Energy Efficiency Programs page to explore tools and upgrades that make your home more comfortable today, and more resilient tomorrow.
