As summer winds down and temperatures begin to drop, we tend to stay indoors more! Prepare your home for the seasonal change with these tips to help you manage your energy use keep your costs under control:
- Use natural light – Natural light is one of the easiest ways to reduce energy usage within your home. Instead of turning on the lights, open your blinds or curtains to let the light from the outdoors illuminate your household. Not only will this help reduce electricity usage, but it will also help the environment and lower your bill.
- Watch for energy “vampires” – An energy vampire is any appliance that uses energy even when it’s not in use. Examples include printers, game consoles, and coffee makers. When they’re not in use, it’s best to unplug the appliance at night or whenever you leave the house. This way you can avoid unwanted energy drain. There are also products that cut off electricity to devices when not in use.
- Reduce your appliance usage – Many people, unconsciously, have habits of excessively using appliances in their homes. From dishwashers to washers and dryers, limiting the times you use them can have a big effect. Wait until your dishwasher is full before using it, or change the number of loads you wash weekly, and you’ll be saving energy in no time. In addition, choosing high-efficiency appliances that have earned the ENERGYSTAR® rating can help save energy and money on everyday chores.
- Use LED light bulbs – LED light bulbs use 70-90% less energy than regular light bulbs and have a longer lifespan. LEDs come in all shapes and sizes, so if you think there is a spot in your home where you can’t use LEDs, you may be surprised to find out there’s a LED bulb that will fit!
- Ensure your home is properly insulated – It can be a hassle to keep your home the right temperature when you have an insulation issue that forces you to use the heat or air-conditioning more than needed. One quick way you can reduce your energy usage is by checking for gaps in doorways or windows that are letting air in or out and sealing up any air leaks.
- Remember the Four Factors –
- Energy Usage: Half the cost of your energy bill comes from cooling/heating your home. Adjust your thermostat before 3 p.m. to take advantage of lower, off-peak rates.
- Fluctuation in Temps: As it turns to fall, the weather can be unpredictable. When things do heat up outside, turn your thermostat up a few degrees to keep your energy costs down.
- Monthly Billing Cycle: Cycles can run from 26 to 35 days, so monthly bills may vary based on the number of days.
- Household Changes: Less sunlight and more time indoors mean more electric use. Switch to energy efficient appliances to help you save.