According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the typical American consumer spends about $2,000 per year on energy. Think for a moment about how much of those hard-earned dollars and how much of that energy is just thrown away. By following a few basic tips and recommendations, it is possible to cut down on your utility bills by up to 33 percent. The following list features some common-sense economical advice, as well as recommendations from energy preservation professionals.
Buy ENERGY STAR Appliances and Use Them Properly
Big appliances, such as refrigerator-freezers and water heaters, use a lot of energy. The average household freezer accounts for about 10 percent of a typical household’s energy use. This implies that buying energy efficient appliances can give you significant savings on your utility bills. Make sure the appliances you buy are energy efficient and the right size for your family. If you buy a large freezer or water heater that you don’t need, you’ll wind up paying for a lot of empty freezer space or many gallons of wasted hot water.
Unplug Electrical Equipment and Gadgets That Are Not in Use
Even appliances that are switched off use energy. The flashing time on your DVD player or cable box is a perfect example of wasted electricity. Lamps, microwave ovens, TVs, gaming systems and mobile phones are also energy hogs, even when they are turned off. Unplugging these “vampires” when they’re not being used will probably cut your household’s electricity expenses by about 5 percent.
Install a Furnace Humidifier to Keep You Warm
Everyone can reduce home heating costs by using a furnace humidifier. Based on your heating system’s overall performance and how cold the winter gets where you live, you may be able to cut your energy use by up to five percent for each degree you turn down the heat. Here’s how a furnace humidifier can help you: increased moisture allows the air to hold more warmth, which heats up the room better. The result is that you’ll feel cozier and more comfortable. You’ll be able to turn down your thermostat without feeling like you’re freezing.
Seal Out Drafts and Fix Air Leaks
If your home has a central air heating systems, check ductwork and around vents for any leaks. Use duct wax, duct tape or silicone caulk to repair leaks that you find. Leaks in your ductwork can account for up to a third of your household’s wasted energy. Cracks and openings around fireplaces can also amount to missing warmth. Seal the air leaks around doors and windows to prevent the waste of precious energy used to heat and cool your home. Ignoring leaks, cracks and drafts in your home is like throwing away money.
Use an Automated Thermostat
Automated thermostats are easy to install and cost next to nothing to maintain. If used properly, they will cut your energy expenditure by about $150 per season, according to the EPA’s Energy Star program. Here’s how they work: you program an automated thermostat to turn the heat down during the times when you don’t need it, such as when you are at work or sleeping, and to keep your house warm when you’re home and want to feel more comfortable.