Several small steps can add up to big results. When it comes to saving money and energy in your home, we’ve got suggestions for little things you can do that will add up to big savings. Not only will you see a difference in your bills, but you’ll be also conserving valuable resources.
It only takes two minutes to learn how to save money on your utilities with these tips to save energy and ways to save water. If you have questions about how to make your home more efficient, call the plumbing and electrical pros at Applewood. We’ve been helping homes run better for decades!
1. Turn Off or Unplug Electronics
Even if they’re turned off, anything plugged into a wall socket continues to draw electricity. That’s energy you have to pay for. Keep your appliances and electronics from drawing power by unplugging them when you’re not using them. The US Department of Energy estimates that 75% of energy goes to appliances and devices that are turned off. That’s a lot of extra cost!
2. Reheat with Your Microwave
Heating food on the stove or in the oven takes more time and energy than simply zapping it in the microwave for a couple of minutes. If you’re worried about nutrition, a recent Harvard study found that microwaves actually do a better job preserving nutrients as they warm than conventional means. Who knew using a microwave was one of the simplest ways to save energy?
3. Keep Your Refrigerator Stocked
You refrigerator is the one appliance that is always on. It uses a good amount of power daily, second only to your HVAC. By filling your fridge or freezer, you leave less space for warm air to settle when you open the door. This means less energy to keep the inside a constant temperature. If you find it difficult to keep your refrigerator and freezer stocked, consider downscaling to a smaller model.
4. Change out Your Filters
Many appliances function around air flow. Your HVAC system is the biggie. Make sure you’re changing out your furnace/AC filter at least every other month. Other filters to be aware of include those in your dryer, refrigerator (if it makes ice), vacuum cleaner, dishwasher, range hood and window air conditioners. Cleaning your filters is an easy way to save money on utilities.
5. Seal Leaks
In winter, cold Colorado air can seep into your home at numerous locations and ratchet up your heating costs. In summer, warm air leaking in can raise your cooling costs. Sealing your doors and windows is one of the best ways to save energy in your home. A few inexpensive supplies from your local hardware store could mean big savings on your heating or cooling bill.
6. Use Your Dishwasher
A dishwasher is a great investment for many reasons. Not only will it save you precious time, but it will also use less water than if you did your dishes by hand. Reduce your water use and the frequency you need to wash your dishes by filling up your dishwasher every night. Did you know you can also use your dishwasher to clean toys, light fixtures and vent covers? Sanitize household items safely and efficiently in yours.
7. Kick Up the Thermostat in Summer
Air conditioning feels great on hot summer days but how cool do you really need your home to be? Set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature that won’t break the bank. A few degrees could mean a few dollars. When you’re not home, raise the temp up to 85. With a programable thermostat you can schedule it to cool down before you get home.
8. Save on Your Laundry
Even with energy saving appliances, washers can go through a lot of hot water. Top loading washers average 25 gallons/cycle – which means 50 total if add a hot or warm rinse cycle. An Energy Star front loading washing will use half that amount. Line drying your clothes once they’re clean could save you an average of $5/ month on your electricity bill. Laundry is a great area to save money on utilities.
9. Reduce Appliance Use During Peak Hours
When everyone uses electricity at the same time, it causes the electric company to increase production or purchase more expensive power from other sources. When you shift your appliance use to off peak hours, you help the environment and reduce the expensive practices utility companies follow to meet demand. If everyone does their part, we can keep power prices lower.
10. Save 10% By Upgrading Your Cooling system
Keeping cool during dry, hot Denver summers is a big investment for families. A new, more efficient air conditioning system may be the best long-term solution to cutting your costs. If you haven’t upgraded your system in ten years or more, talk to one of Applewood’s AC experts. We can help you compare options and make your home easier to cool.
