How to save on energy costs every day.

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Simple things you can do every day to conserve energy:

  • Turn off lights, electronics and appliances when they’re not in use. Put your computer on sleep mode when you’re not using it.
  • Take shorter, cooler showers to reduce hot water use.
  • Only run your washing machine when it’s a full load, and opt for a cold water cycle whenever possible.

There are also lots of ways to save on electricity in the kitchen. When was the last time you cleaned your refrigerator coils? A regular cleaning can help them cool more efficiently. Check the temperature to ensure your fridge is cooling and freezing properly—we recommend setting the refrigerator temperature between 35°-39°F and the freezer between 0°-5°F.

When possible, try air washing your dishes in a drying rack to give the dishwasher a rest. On the stove, match the size of pots and pans to the size of the burner for greater efficiency.

Take your hot water heater’s temperature.

It doesn’t cost you a dime to regularly keep up with your hot water heater. Set the temperature of the heater to 120°F for maximum efficiency. Once a year, drain a gallon of water from your water heater to remove sediment and improve performance.

These little things will go a long way over time.

Small investments with a big impact in the long run.

The following tips will cost a little bit here and there, but the payoff is worth it.

  • Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent (CFL) bulbs or light-emitting diodes (LED), which use 75% less energy and last 10 times longer.
  • Wrap your water heater with insulation or an insulating blanket, and insulate the first 5 feet of pipe coming from your water heater.
  • Change air filters monthly so your cooling system can work optimally.
  • Install an ENERGY STAR certified programmable thermostat.
  • Caulk and weather-strip around windows and doors to stop air leaks. Seal exterior light switches and electrical outlets.
  • Add insulation to your attic, crawlspaces, and any accessible exterior walls.
  • Install aerating, low-flow faucets and showerheads to conserve water.
  • Repair leaky faucets. One drop per second can add up to a whopping 165 gallons a month.

Your seasonal savings chart.

Follow these summer and winter tips to save even more during the months when energy bills are usually the highest.

Tips for SummerTips for Winter

Keep curtains closed during the day to block sunlight and keep the room cool.

Set your thermostat to 68°F or lower.

Set your thermostat between 75°-78°F. If no one’s home, raise it even higher to save even more.

Keep curtains open on the south side of the house and closed on the north side during the day to trap the warm sunlight.

Here’s a great reason to have some green thumb fun and plant a tree: Shade trees on the south or southwest side of your home will keep it cooler.

Make sure the fireplace damper is closed when not in use.

Keep feet warm by placing area rugs over hardwood floors.

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