Saving more energy at home doesn’t have to be complicated or require a lot of work. Remember, small changes can add up to significant energy savings over time. The good news is, the less energy you use, the more you’ll save on your monthly bill.
Here are five easy steps you can take to reduce your energy use.
- Adjust your thermostat. The recommended setting for your thermostat in summer is 78 degrees. Each degree above 72 can save up to 3% on cooling costs. In winter, set your thermostat to 68 degrees. A programmable thermostat can help automatically adjust temperatures based on your schedule.
- Insulate your home. Proper insulation can significantly reduce heating and cooling needs. Seal air leaks around windows and doors, and consider adding insulation to walls, ceilings and attics.
- Unplug electronics. Many devices continue to draw power even when they are turned off or in standby mode. Unplug chargers, televisions, computers and other electronics when they are not in use to avoid “vampire” power consumption. Plug multiple devices into power strips and turn off the strip when devices are not in use. Smart power outlets can be programmed to automatically turn off devices during specific times or when not in use.
- Choose energy-efficient lighting. Replace traditional incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient options such as LED or CFL bulbs. These bulbs consume less energy and last longer.
- Maintain your HVAC. Regularly maintain and clean your HVAC system to ensure it operates efficiently. Replace filters as recommended.
For more energy-saving ideas and to learn about programs such as Beat The Peak and H2O Select, explore our Energy Solutions section.