Energy Saving Tips
Tips and tricks to help you lower your monthly bill.
Weatherization
Weatherizing your home by sealing any drafty leaks will not only reduce allergens like pollen, but can save you up to 30% a year on energy costs.
Replace Your Filters
Clean or replace your filters regularly. Dirty filters make your system work harder and run longer than necessary.
Use Low-Flow Shower Heads
A ten minute shower can use less water than a full bath. With a new 2.5 gallon-per-minute (low-flow) shower head, a 10-minute shower will use about 25 gallons of water, saving you 5 gallons over a typical bath. A new shower head will also save energy – up to $145 each year on electricity – beating out both the bath and old-fashioned shower head.
Water Heater Temperature
The water heater is the second largest energy user in your home. You can save energy by setting the heater thermostat to 120°.
Use Energy Saving Powerstrips
Plug all your electronics into energy saving power strips to save electricity. Be sure to only plug in the approved voltage per strip to avoid potential fires.
Set Your Fridge Temperature
Set your fridge temperature between 35° and 40°. This will keep your food cold enough so any bacteria doesn’t form. Any temp below 35° is too cold and wastes energy.
Close Your Blinds During the Day
Keeping your windows and blinds closed during the day can help keep the heat out.
AC Temperature
Energy Star recommends setting your air conditioner temperature to 78° while you’re home, 82° while you’re asleep, and 85° while you’re away from home. If those temperatures sound too warm to you, a good rule of thumb is to turn your thermostat 7 to 10 degrees higher than your normal setting for at least eight hours a day, so you can save up to 10% a year.
How much does it cost to run your appliances?
Use this table to get an idea of how much it costs to run your typical home appliances.
Seal windows during winter months
Use sheets of heavy duty clear plastic on a frame, or tape to the inside of the window, and seal tightly to keep cold air out during the winter.