Not only does saving energy help the environment, it also saves you big bucks on your energy bill. Everyone knows that turning off the lights when you leave a room can save you energy, but the saving doesn’t stop there — these tips will take your energy savings even further.
Switch for savings
Replace the light bulbs in your home with LED specialty light bulbs, which use 25%–30% less energy than standard incandescent bulbs. This simple switch can save you up to $75 each year.
Adjust your lights with dimmers
Dimmers reduce the flow of electricity to your bulbs and allow your lights to shine using lower power outputs — and can even make your bulbs last longer.
Check your filter
Check your air filter every month, especially those months when you use your HVAC system the most. A dirty filter slows the airflow and makes the system work harder to keep your home warm or cool.
Close the vents
If you live in a house with an extra guest room or basement that isn’t used very often, close the vents and doors in those rooms to help conserve energy when they’re not in use. Next time your family comes to visit, simply open the vents before they arrive so the room returns to the comfortable temperature.
Roll out the rugs
Instead of cranking up the heat whenever your bare floors are chilly in the winter, lay down an area rug. Rugs trap heat more efficiently than hardwood floors, giving the heating system in your home a rest, which means you get lower energy bills, a beautiful home, and warm feet!
Circulate air with ceiling fans
When using your air conditioning, a ceiling fan lets you raise the thermostat about 4 degrees while still providing the same level of comfort. But be sure to turn those fans off when you leave the room — fans cool people, not rooms.
Water heater
Do you know the temperature your water heater is set on? A heater set to 140 degrees or higher can waste $36–$61 each year. Turn yours down to 120 degrees to save energy without giving up those warm, relaxing showers.
Once you’ve checked all of these projects off your energy savings list, find tips for purchasing energy-efficient appliances for your home. <link to new resources page.
