Top 10 Energy-Savings Tips for Your Home
Want to cut back on electricity usage? Check out these energy-savings tips for your home.
- For every degree you set your thermostat below 78°F, you’ll see a five- to seven-percent increase in your cooling costs. So, in the summer months, raise your thermostat to lower your electricity usage.
- Install a programmable thermostat. These are ideal for people who are away from home during set periods of time throughout the week and can save you hundreds every year in electricity costs.
- Check your air filter every month, especially during heavy use months like December and June. At a minimum, change the filter every three months.
- When you are not in the room, unplug major appliances such as lights, TVs, entertainment systems, and your computer and monitor to save energy and money.
- When possible, upgrade your major appliances such as your fridge, dishwasher and washer/dryer to more energy-efficient models.
- Stay on top of appliance maintenance — a well-cared-for appliance means less excess energy being spent.
- Seal any gaps in your windows or doors, so your hot or cold air stays right where you need it to — inside your house.
- By replacing your home's five most frequently used light bulbs with more energy-efficient alternatives such as LED lighting, you can save between $40 to $135 over the light bulb's lifetime.
- Replace your washer if it's 10 years old or more with an energy-efficient model, and you could save more than $100 each year on your utility bills. That's like getting your high efficiency (HE) detergent free year-round!
- Look for the ENERGY STAR® and Energy Guide label on light bulbs, home appliances, and electronics. The ENERGY STAR® label is the government's seal of energy efficiency.
Visit www.energysavers.gov to learn many more tips or sign up to start saving today!
