More Low-Cost Energy-Saving Tips
In our last post, we discussed how proper use of your thermostat and ceiling fans can help reduce your monthly energy costs. We also discussed some steps you can take to prevent phantom power draw from wasting energy.
In this post, we’ll be discussing three more steps you can take that will help reduce your energy usage and monthly utility costs.
Investing in Energy Star Appliances
If you’re considering purchasing new electrical appliances or devices, be sure to look for the Energy Star label. Energy Star certified appliances and devices include clothes washers and dryers, refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers, dehumidifiers, central air conditioning and heating systems, room air conditioners, computers and many more.
Replacing your old, inefficient appliances with new, Energy Star certified devices can significantly reduce your energy usage and costs over time.
Using Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs
One of the simplest ways to reduce your energy usage is by replacing incandescent light bulbs with energy-efficient compact fluorescent lights.
General Electric Company is one of the leading manufacturers of energy-efficient light bulbs. According to the company, its compact fluorescent bulbs “use two-thirds less energy than standard incandescent light bulbs, and last up to 10-times longer.”
Replacing a 60-watt incandescent bulb with a 13-watt compact fluorescent bulb will save you about $30 over the life of the bulb.
You should also remember to turn off overhead lights and lamps when they’re not needed. Installing timers in rooms that are used for short periods of time (closets, bathrooms, basements, garages, etc.) can also help reduce your energy usage.
Sealing and Insulating
Making sure your home is well sealed and insulated will help reduce your energy usage by preventing heat flow between walls and ceilings.
When it comes to insulation, the best place to start is in your attic. The proper amount and type of insulation to install in your attic depends on your local climate. Please click the following link for more information on attic insulation. It’s also a good idea to wrap any exposed hot water pipes with insulation to help maintain proper water temperature and lessen the work load on your water heater. Insulating your heating and cooling ducts will prevent heat exchange and keep your HVAC system from working harder than it has to in order to keep your home comfortable.
You should also make sure your home is well sealed. Fill all holes around pipes, electrical switches and outlets, doors and windows with caulk or foam insulation to prevent heat exchange.
In our next post, we’ll discuss four more simple ways to make your home more energy-efficient.
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