Reducing energy cost
Energy costs are increasing dramatically. Here are a few inexpensive energy-efficient measures, you can use to reduce your energy bills by 10 to 50 percent and at the same time save energy and reduce air pollution.
Control Indoor Temperatures:
You can save as much as 10 percent a year on your heating and cooling bills by simply turning your thermostat back 10-15 percent for eight hours every day. Reduce daytime home heating temperatures in winter to 68 degrees F or lower.
Many of the following tips lead to energy efficiency in summer as well as in winter.
- When you leave the house for more than four hours set the thermostat back to 60 degrees.
- When you go on vacation, set the thermostat back to 55 degrees.
- Reduce nighttime temperature 5 to 8 degrees or more.
- During the day, open draperies and roll up shades on windows that face south, east, and west to receive direct heat from the sun in winter.
- Place furniture so that it does not block heat registers or outlets.
Control Air Leaks: Energy lost through air leaks can be decreased.
- Caulk cracks around doors, windows, foundation, and the fireplace.
- Close door of attached garage in winter.
- Close the flue when fireplace is not in use.
- Weatherstrip doors and windows.
- Lock your windows so they seal tighter.
- Use kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans only when necessary.
- Seal unused doors and rooms.
- Insulate ceilings, walls, floors and basement walls adequately.
- Install storm windows and doors.
- Use plastic tightly sealed to the inside of window frames.
- Select a heating system properly sized for house.
- Seal leaks in ductwork.
- Insulated all ducts in exposed areas.
- Maintain heating and cooling equipment in good operating condition.
- Keep air filters clean to make it easier for forced air systems to operate.
- Arrange with heating/cooling dealer for yearly maintenance.
Manage Your Equipment Wisely
- Reduce the amount of hot water used.
- Insulate hot water pipes.
- Maintain a setting of 110-120 degrees F on water heater thermostat. Refer to your owner’s manual for proper setting. If in doubt, test the temperature of water coming from the tap. Note: If your dishwasher does not have a booster heating element, keep water heater temperature at 140 degrees F.
Repair leaky faucets, especially hot water leaks.
