In the last year, our energy bills, both electric and gas, have been increasing at the rate of about $10 per month. This is indicative of an overall increase in energy costs nationwide. That is scary, especially with gas prices in our area soaring toward $5.00 a gallon and unemployment rampant! My husband and I routinely monitor potential sources of energy loss and waste. Here are 25 simple ways to conserve energy and save money in your home.
1) Electricity is less expensive than natural gas. Choose electric appliances over gas when possible.
2) Check for proper home insulation. A poorly insulated home will cause all energy costs skyrocket.
3) In cold weather, place a rug or towel in front of each door and window; this will prevent cold air from entering and warmed air from exiting.
4) Seal up any interior or exterior cracks with cement, caulk or silicone.
5) In summer, close drapes in mid-morning to keep the sun out. Create cross-ventilation by opening windows on opposite sides of the house.
6) Replace old drafty windows with double-hung, vinyl replacement windows. Vinyl windows are relatively inexpensive and will dramatically reduce energy costs.
7) Dial your thermostat down to 62 when you are gone and 65 at night.
Wash only whites in hot water; wash all other clothing in cold or warm.
9) Hang clothing out to dry in the sun, especially jeans and towels.
10)Install low-output shower heads.
11)Set water heater on lowest heat setting.
12)Unplug appliances that are not in use.
13)Turn off all lights when not in use.
14)Use your fireplace in winter.
15)Keep chimney and grate clean.
16)Clean all vents and filters regularly. This includes the furnace, air conditioner, dryer and vacuum cleaner. The filters in our AC at work had not been cleaned; the unit put out about three times as much cool air after I cleaned it.
17)Use hand appliances instead of electric when possible (can opener, mixer, etc.)
18)Choose Energy star appliances.
19)Wash dishes by hand.
20)Only run the dishwasher, dryer and washing machine when they are full.
21)Don’t over-charge cell phones; not only does it waste electricity, it damages the battery.
22)Clean fan screens and blades so they run most efficiently.
23)Install fluorescent lighting.
24)Turn the computer completely off when not in use.
25)Use electric skillets and cookers instead of the oven or microwave.
These tips will reduce energy waste and keep your energy costs as low as possible!
