Trying to save money on your energy bill? Here are some simple tips you can use to lower your energy cost.
Everyday Living Tips
- Set your thermostat to 68° or lower during the cold months. Set the thermostat to 55° when no one is home for more than four hours (unless you have animals of course).
- If you have a gas fireplace, turn the pilot off during the warm and hot months.
- Promptly turn-off kitchen, bath, or other ventilating fans off when not in use.
- Make sure you only use your washer and dryer with full loads.
- Take five minute showers instead of baths or longer showers.
- Make sure your fireplace damper is closed when not in use.
Maintenance Tips
- Seal duct joints with mastic or high-quality duct tape. Insulate ducts in unconditioned areas of your home.
- Make sure your fireplace damper is closed when not in use.
- Caulk any small gaps around the fixed joints of windows and doorframes.
- Weather-strip all moveable joints on windows and doors.
- Install an insulating wrap for your water heater.
- Every month, replace the air filters for your heating and cooling system.
- Drain a quart of water from your water heater every three months to remove sediment that lowers the efficiency of your water heater.
- When purchasing new appliances, buy the most energy-efficient model possible.
- During the cold months, remove solar screens. Allow sunlight to enter your home during the day by raising blinds or opening curtains. Cover windows during nighttime hours to prevent heat loss.