You don’t have to spend a lot of money on expensive gadgets to reduce your energy costs. We’ve listed 10 inexpensive energy saving tips you can put into action today. Be conscientious about the small things you do that add up to big waste over time. By taking small steps toward smarter living, you’ll save money and can take pride in knowing that you’re doing your part to help the environment.
Energy savers that don’t cost a dime!
Adjust the thermostat – According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can save around 10% on your heating and cooling bills each year by adjusting the thermostat 10 – 15 degrees for eight hours each day. The best time do adjust the thermostat? At night while you’re asleep.
Adjust the hot water temperature – Save an estimated 3% – 5% in energy costs for every 10 degrees you lower your hot water temperature. Lower the temperature on the hot water heater itself to see big savings each year.
Stop heating and cooling unused rooms – Why pay to heat or cool a spare bedroom that never gets used? Close the air vent and shut the door to reduce energy costs. The rest of your home will stay comfortable, and you’ll reduce energy costs by roughly $ 50 per year.
Shade the windows – Help keep your home comfortable in any weather by simply shading the windows during the day. Pull the blinds or shades down, add window tinting, or enjoy the shade nature provides with trees or hedges.
Change your routine – If you typically run the washing machine, dryer, or dishwasher during the middle of the day, make a switch to early morning or late evening. This off-peak timing will cost you less to use.
Inexpensive Energy Saving
Insulate pipes – Insulate pipes that pass through areas that you don’t want heated or cooled, such as the basement and attic. Use pipe insulation or insulated pipe sleeves to properly cover the pipes to reduce energy waste. Best of all, properly insulated pipes will result in hotter water too, which will allow you to lower your hot water temperature for even more savings.
Insulate the water heater – Wrap the tank with a fiberglass blanket to eliminate energy loss and reduce energy costs. Consult your owner’s manual to ensure that this is a viable option for your unit. If so, you can find a pre-cut blanket for around $ 40.00.
Weatherize – Keep your home at a comfortable temperature and conserve energy with affordable weather stripping, door seals, vent covers, and other inexpensive energy saving products. See our recommendations for ‘5 affordable products that weatherize your home’.
Change furnace filters – To keep the furnace running efficiently, change the filter once a month. Over time, these filters get clogged with dirt, dust, and hair. A clogged filter requires the unit to work overtime, thereby costing you more money.
Use light dimmers – Did you know you can save an average of 20% on your electric bill with a light dimmer? A light dimmer allows you to control the intensity of the light in the room, which helps to reduce energy costs. After all, why burn a light at full capacity if only a dim illumination is needed?
More from Jennifer Wagner:
6 Green Gadgets that Lower Utility Costs
What’s Causing Your High Electric Bill?
Extend the Life of Your Household Appliances
Source:
Personal knowledge
Jennifer Wagner – Yahoo! Contributor Network
Jenny Wagner – Columbus Home Improvement Examiner
http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/space_heating_cooling/index.cfm/mytopic=12720