Big thank you to Energy Conservationist George Kennedy, for offering these low-cost, no-cost home energy conservation tips for the home. George explains how many ways you can help your budget and the environment!
Here Is Your Action List To Conserve Energy In The Home!
Turn Back the Thermostat
Turn it down in winter, turn it up in summer.
Save one percent of your bill for every degree the thermostat is reduced (per 8 hours). In the winter, lower the temperature at night. It’s healthier to sleep in a cool room and you may rest better knowing you’re saving money at the same time. In the summer, set back the temperature and sleep with less bed covers.
Change the Furnace Filter
Changing the filter as recommended (some are annual; some are every 3 months) can save 7-1/2 % of the household electric bill. Once again, saving money correlates with good health. Of course, you want to breathe clean air with a clean filter. Mark it on your calendar so it doesn’t get missed.
Clean the Air Conditioning Coil
Dirt, pollen, leaves, grass clippings get caught up in the air conditioner coil but it’s important to keep it clean for efficiency. Clean it up once a year, preferably before summer arrives.
- Purchase a filter to attach to the hose or spigot. It can reduce or eliminate calcium, chlorine, and magnesium to soften the water.
- Turn off power to the air conditioner. IMPORTANT!
- Remove the cover of your air conditioner to spray off and clean the coils.
Keep the filter on when watering the garden and your plants will be happier, too!
Remember to Close the Fireplace Flue
A fire adds ambiance but isn’t energy efficient. If the flue isn’t closed after the fire has died down, it’s like an open window.
Avoid Air Infiltration
Avoid air infiltration through electrical outlets by using standard plastic childproofing covers. Slip under-the-door draft stoppers under doors through all seasons to eliminate the air blowing in and reducing dust, as well.
Be Efficient with Dishwasher and Washer
Newer appliances save electricity and money but full loads in dishwasher and washing machine saves the budget, too. Full loads can save $25 to $45 per year. A dishwasher can save 3-1/2 times the amount of water, too!
Clean the Refrigerator Coil
Refrigerators work similarly to air conditioners and they are big energy consumers, pulling heat from within the appliance through coiled pipes and transfer it out into the room. When the coil is dirty or dusty, it has to work that much harder. The coils can be behind or underneath your refrigerator and can be cleaned with a vacuum, brush or compressed air.
Cook Outside in Summer
During the air conditioning season, cook outside on the grill as much as possible or small appliances in the house. You can save 55% of the energy using a small appliance compared to the oven.
Lower the Hot Water Temperature
Set your tank at 120 degrees. This is a perfect temperature for your appliances that use water. The hot water tank itself will last longer and the pipes will radiate less heat into the home. This is a safety issue, too. Children and older adults can safely use water at this temperature without getting scalded quickly. 140 degrees may be recommended on the tank label, but is not recommended by energy or safety experts.
Change the Household Lighting
LED lighting can save a large amount of money. The cost of LED bulbs is higher but comparable to regular incandescent bulbs when purchased in quantity. They are both comparable in light output, but LED bulbs last considerably longer, don’t get hot, and take less energy. They also reduce the workload of the air conditioner in the summer.
Stop Parasitic Load
Small appliances, TVs, stereos, cable boxes, and clocks all draw continuous electricity. Rather than unplugging each one, consider a power strip with a timer that will shut down the electricity for hours each day or night.
And, for Ageless Advice, George suggests a good aerobic workout at least three times a week, don’t smoke, and be sure to watch Aging Gracefully TV!
This energy-conserving information is relevant to everyone today! You can save a great deal of money by thrift shopping, too. Get ready for the next season by understanding electricity usage and costs. See this helpful page from the Illuminating Company below.
Please share your thoughts in the comment box below…
Do you have more ideas for conserving energy in the home? Do tell!
Which of the above home energy conservation tips will you implement in your home?
