Energy & Water Conservation

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Making some small changes at home can really make a big difference on your utility bill.

There are many things that can contribute to high energy use.  Of course, the amount of heating and cooling you do can have the biggest effect on your utility bill.  Older appliances that aren’t energy efficient can also use a lot more energy than ENERGY STAR qualified appliances.

Although it may not be feasible to unplug your refrigerator or oven when you’re not using them, there are probably several appliances you can unplug when not in use.  Did you know that the average home has more than 25 electronic products and many of those devices are left plugged in 24 hours a day?  Did you know those devices continue to draw power even when they are off?

Tips to Save Energy & Money

1. Lighting is one the easiest steps you can take to start saving energy.  Replacing at least your five most frequently used light fixtures with ENERGY STAR qualified light bulbs can save more than $65 per year.  They last up to 10 times longer, use less energy and you’ll see the savings right away.
2. Before winter starts, remember to replace your screens with storm windows.  Caulk and weather-strip around windows and doors that leak air.  If replacing windows with ENERGY STAR qualified models, save $20-$95 per year.
3. Install a low-flow shower head.  Even a 10 minute shower beats taking a full bath.  This can save over $140 a year!
4. While we’re on the subject, fix those water leaks.  Leaks inside the toilet can waste over 200 gallons of water a day.  (Check for a toilet leak by adding a few drops of food coloring to the tank.  Coloring will appear in the toilet if it’s leaking.)
5. Install a programmable thermostat to control air conditioning usage or heating hours.  This is a great way to control temperatures when you’re not home or asleep.
6. At least 15% of your electricity use is due to home electronics.  Choose ENERGY STAR electronics that save energy when off, while still maintaining features like clock displays, channel settings and remote control functions.
7. Turn off the lights!  Turning off one 60-watt incandescent light bulb, that would burn 8 hours a day can save you $15 per year per bulb!
8. If your current fridge was made before 1993, it uses twice as much energy as a new ENERGY STAR qualified model.  Are you using an old fridge in your basement or garage?

It only takes a few of the suggestions listed above to save energy and water while reducing your utility bills at the same time.