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Things you can do to save energy that don’t cost a dime.
A lot of savings can be generated from personal choice and actions.
- Turn off unused lights. An oldie, but a goodie. Why pay for light you don't need?
- Shorter showers. Heard that one before as well — but it works.
- Use hot water as required. If you have a choice on your clothes washer or dishwasher, go the Energy Saver mode. A cold water wash or rinse can be just the ticket at times.
- After your fireplace fire has been “cold” a couple of hours, close the vent. Warm air rises … so will your bill. Why heat the great out-of-doors?
- Practice thermostat control. During the heating season, it’s estimated that you can save about 2 percent on the heating bill for every degree you lower the thermostat.
- Night setbacks pay off. A 10-degree night setback while you’re in bed can work wonders on the bill.
- Buy energy smart. Any large appliance comes with required energy efficiency information. A more efficient appliance gives you a head start on savings that’ll pay off for years. Use energy saving compact fluorescent bulbs where you can. They last up to 10 times longer than conventional incandescent lamps according to manufacturers’ estimates.
- Turn down a too-high water heater thermostat. For most households, 120 degree F water is just right … about halfway between the low and medium setting. To accomplish this, see our step-by-step instructions.
- Dress for the season. Loose fitting clothing in summer … layers of clothing in colder weather.
- Don’t heat or cool rooms that are not in use.
- Clean heating system filters regularly.
- To keep your home cool, adjust shades, blinds and draperies to block the sun's hot summer rays. Let hot air out with attic vents and make sure soffit vents are not blocked. This keeps you and your attic cooler and it also extends the life of your shingles.
- Winter warm up: Open your window coverings on clear, cold days and let the winter sun help boost temperatures inside.
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