10 Easy ways to save energy
- Turn off lights when you leave a room.
- Many appliances use energy even when they’re not “on”. Consider unplugging or using a power strip to turn off when these appliances are not in use: televisions, VCR/DVD, stereos, computers, coffee pot and cell phone charges.
- Turn your water heater off when not in use. If you are in need of a new water heater, check into the tankless versions, they can save bundles of money.
- Shorten your shower time; take showers instead of baths.
- Wash clothes on the cold setting, and only wash when you have a full load. Hand washing is still an option for a few items at a time.
- Put up a clothesline outside, it does not use any energy and your clothes will smell like sunshine. (Use liquid fabric softener in the wash and your clothes will not be stiff). When using the dryer, clean the vent after each use.
- Set your thermostat to 78 degrees in the summer and 68 degrees in the winter. This will be an enormous savings. Keep the fan on “auto” instead of “on”. Use a fireplace in the winter; in the spring and fall, open windows, air out the house and turn the thermostat “off”.(Replacing older thermostat with a programmable one can significantly add to your savings). When away from home, either for work or on vacation, go a little higher in the summer and lower in the winter to see additional savings.
- In the summer close blinds and drapes to help keep your home cool and open them in the winter to let more sun in to help heat your home. Keep doors and windows closed while air conditioner is running.
- Use ceiling fans, this keeps the air circulating making it easier to heat and cool.
- Take shorter showers.
To schedule a home energy audit today, call 360-456-4956
