Energy Conservation Tips
The following tips can help you save energy and control your electric bill throughout the year. In the summer
A thermostat setting of 78º is ideal for energy efficiency. If you can raise it and remain comfortable, your savings will increase with each degree you raise your thermostat. If you are leaving your home for more than a few hours, raise the thermostat 4º or more than normal. Don't drastically lower the thermostat upon returning home. Doing so will not cool your home faster, it will only keep the unit running longer. Use fans where possible. Portable fans or ceiling fans can make the air feel about 10º cooler. Run heat-producing appliances, like dishwashers and clothes dryers in the evening. Close drapes and blinds to keep out the sun's rays during the day, and open them at night to allow the heat to escape through the glass. In the winter
A thermostat setting of 68º is recommended. If you can further lower your thermostat and remain comfortable, your savings will increase with each degree you lower it. Selectively open and close drapes and blinds during the day to maximize solar heat gain. Close them at night to keep the warm air in. Monthly
Change or clean the filters in your air returns. Year-round
Adequate insulation is essential for maximum energy efficiency in your home. Industry experts recommend R-30 for attic insulation and R-13 for wall insulation. Insulate hot water pipes and ducts wherever they run through unheated areas. Caulk and weather-strip around windows and doors to eliminate air leaks. Check around pipes coming into your home and caulk or seal if necessary to eliminate air leaks. Wrap your water heater in an insulating blanket. These can be found at most home improvement stores. Set the thermostat at the lowest temperature that meets your needs. In most cases 120º is sufficient and 140º allows for sterilization in kitchens. Clean light bulbs regularly. This ensures that you will receive maximum light. Compact fluorescent light bulbs use 75 percent less energy than standard incandescent bulbs. They also last longer. When purchasing new appliances, look for the ENERGY STAR label. The ENERGY STAR rating program, developed through a partnership between the EPA and the U.S. Department of Energy in 1996, designates certain appliances as energy efficient and environmentally friendly. Have your cooling and heating systems checked by a professional. Maintaining your home's systems will keep them running at maximum efficiency. Be sure not to block your vents with furniture, plants or other objects. Blocking air flow will decrease the efficiency of your system.
printer
friendly page
|
