Tips for reducing energy cost

A man in a blue shirt explains a wall-mounted device to a man and woman in a kitchen-dining area.

 

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.

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