1.) Properly Maintain Your Equipment
Most homeowners never think to regularly scedule to inspect their heating and air conditioning equipment. Simple 2-minute checks that really do matter, like changing your air filters every 30 days or checking that there is no condensation on the water lines.
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How about cleaning and removing debris from your outdoor air conditioning unit or heat pump? When it snows - don't shovel the driveway first, shovel the area around your heat pump first - when snow gets around the edges, it can become very inefficient and really spike up your costs. Lastly, changing your temperature settings in the fall and spring can have your air conditioning and heat usage at their most efficient levels.
2.) Blinds and Shades
During the summer, make sure they are closed all the way during the day and the night to block the sun from further heating up the home that you are trying to cool down with A/C. During the winter, leave your shades open during the day so that the sunlight can help you heat the home.
3.) Temperature Settings
Did you know that a one-degree change inside your home can save you as much as 5% per year on your bills? Depending on your comfort level, a good rule of thumb is 74 degrees in the summer and 70 degrees in the winter. Use programmable thermostats and adjust for when you are not home. It makes no sense to crank the A/C al day if you are at work for 8-10 hours. For your water heater or boiler, keep that set around 145 degrees and you'll have energy efficiency as well as savings.
4.) Trees and Shrubs
Plant them. Their shade will help the inside of your home stay cool in summer when using your A/C. They will also block the wind in the winter a little bit.
5.) Leaks and Infiltration
Windows, doors, vents, and exhaust systems are places that you'll need to pay close attention to. Seal with foam insulation or flashing. Make sure all the windows are locked all the way so there is no gaps or spaces around the edges. Also check the seals around your doors and install door jam strips to drevent drafting.
6.) Lighting
Use compact flourescent and LED bulbs. Period. The extra money you pay for them today will pay for itself 20 times over in the years to come. Use time clocks for your lights and remember to turn off if you are not in a room.
7.) Attic
Air flow is the key here - you need a clear roof line and eaves. Add insultation to prevent leakage and to keep the heat in the winter and the cool in during the summer. Seal all the vents and duct tape the duct work so there is no leakage at the seams. Add roof vents. There are several kinds including whirly-bird, O'Hagan Flat Show, Dormer, Ridge, Static, and Gable. Ask an expert at Lowes to help you decide which is best for your home.
8.) Turn it Off!
Lights, electronics, appliances...if it is plugged in, it is most likely drawing power even if it is powered off. Computers all have sleep features, make sure these settings are accurate so that power is not being wasted. Use cold water for the laundry!
9.) Use Energy Star Applicances
These appliances and devices are up to 30% more efficient that their counter-parts. You will be repaid within 3 years of your initial purchase. Take a look at the SEER rating - these are important. Lastly, there are usually rebates available for these purchases, always take advantage of them.
10.) Seek cheaper Supply
Many states today are deregulated and consumers have a choice in who will supply them with their electricity and/or natural gas. Your current Utility will still be responsible to distribute or "carry" the power to you, but you can choose where they get it from. The supplier. Seek budget stability and always go with a fixed rate product. Exercise your right to choose today and you can save anwhere from 10% - 30% monthly.
Top 10 Ways To Save Money On Energy at Home
In fact, if you live in MD, DE, DC or PA, you can check out cheaper, 3rd party energy suppliers by clicking CQI associates' website HERE
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