Energy Saving Tips
Whether the outlook is for a cold winter or a tough economic forecast, it's a good idea to look for ways to conserve energy around your home. There are some simple steps (plus a few more complicated ones) that you can take around your home that can save money and carbon while keeping your family warm and toasty. Many households could save 20-30 percent on their household energy bills by implementing energy efficiency improvements.*
Simple things you can do:
- Turn your thermostat down several degrees when leaving the house for the day or extended periods of time. One easy way to do this is to purchase a programmable thermostat. You can also save by turning the thermostat down a couple of degrees all the time.
- Keep your water heater temperature at temperature between 115-120 degrees. Consider getting a tankless water heater that only heats the water you need.
- Limit your time spent in the shower to cut down on hot water usage. You can also install aerators to save on the amount of water you use while showering.
- Wash laundry in cold as often as possible and line or rack dry your clothes.
- Call your energy company to come out and check for leaks.
- Call your utility company to ask about a year-round rate.
- Defrost foods in the refrigerator before cooking.
- Use compact fluorescent light bulbs in standard fixtures. Find out how much impact this simple step can have on Turn the Tide...
- Replace or clean your furnace filters monthly. This could save up to 5% on your heating bill
Long-term energy saving investments:
- Buy green appliances - many utilities offer rebates in return for purchasing efficient appliances through the Federal Government's Energy Star program.
- Seal up your home. Seal air leaks and add insulation.
- Weatherize your windows.
- Upgrade your windows to those with multiple layers of glazing and approved by the NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council).
- When buying a new furnace or boiler, make sure you purchase one with a more efficient AFUE or adjusted fuel utilization efficiency.
Reducing your car's energy usage:
Rising gas prices at the pump are hitting all drivers in the pocketbook Below are a few tips on how to keep your car at its most energy efficient.
- Go easy on the brakes and gas pedal, avoid hard accelerations, reduce idling and unload your trunk.
- Get regular tuneups and scheduled maintenance to optimize efficiency.
- Check tire pressure regularly. Under inflation causes increased wear and decreased gas mileage.
- Take a break from driving: use mass transit; walk or bike whenever possible.
Got Energy Saving Tips we haven't thought of? Post 'em here
* Department of Energy's Energy Savers website - http://energysavers.gov/homeowners.html