How much is your home energy bill? Whatever the answer is, we’re sure you would like it to be less. So whether you want to protect the environment or save money this season, these simple tips will help cut your energy use — without leaving you feeling like you’re back in the Stone Age.
Get a Home Energy Assessment
Find out how much energy your home is using, and learn what areas to cut back in. Most electrical companies will do this for cheap or free.
Seal your windows
Every year, more than $13 billion worth of energy leaks out of houses through small holes and cracks. That adds up to more than $150 per family!
Get the most out of appliances
Developed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Energy, Energy Star marked appliances are held to the highest standards of energy efficiency. Though a bit more costly upfront, they save homeowners hundreds every year.
Bigger isn’t always better
Buy a window unit or space heater based on how many square feet in the room, not by how big the unit is.
Clean out the vents
Not only will you end up with better air pressure, but the air quality in your home will also improve.
Maximize fireplace heat
Don’t let the air you just paid to heat escape. Close the damper when you’re not using the fireplace. And for those who never use their fireplace, make sure to plug and seal the chimney flue.
Remember the 2 degree rule
Adjust your go to temperature two degrees up when you have the air on, and two degrees down when you turn on the heat. You won’t feel a difference, but your energy bill will.
Use fans the right way
Set your fan to counterclockwise during the summer months for a cool breeze and clockwise during the winter to pull up and circulate any warm air.
Get a jacket – but not for yourself
Most water heaters keep hot water ready in the tank at all times. Use a jacket or insulator cover to keep water hot longer.
Love your dishwasher
Good news for the person in charge of cleaning up after dinner. Running a full load in the dishwasher is more energy efficient than cleaning everything by hand.
Trade in fluorescent for LED’s
LED lights are 4x more efficient than fluorescent lights and last 10x longer so it’s no shock most people have already made the switch.
Invest in a humidifier or dehumidifier
A humid room is a hot room. So if you live in a humid climate, try using a dehumidifier before an air conditioner – they’re less expensive and help protect your home against mold and mildew.
Use programmable thermostats
By learning the times your most often home or away, programmable thermostats adjust the temperature so that energy is not being wasted on an empty home.
Looking for new ways to save money and maximize your home’s comfort? If so, turn to Blue Mountain Plumbing, Heating and Cooling. We offer programmable thermostats and can service all of your heating or cooling needs. Call (540) 942-2700 today to request our service.
