subject: Tips To Save Electricity In Your Home [print this page] You hear it in the news all the time these days, energy conservation, or green living or whatever other name it is known by. We must all do our part to help conserve energy, whether it be at work or at home. Being energy conscious not only helps save our planet but helps our wallet too. One of the most direct and easy way for us to help save energy is in our elecricity bill. There are so many little things we can do that can save us lots of money in the long run. Here are just a few ideas that may help you lower your electricity bill.
Turn off all lights and fans when not in use. This is a simple one. Whenever you leave a room, be sure to turn them off.
You know those appliances and electronics (flat panel tvs come to mind) that are always on stanby mode? Well they can account for as much as 5-10% of electricty use. Simple solution, connect your electronics to a power strip that can be turned off when they are not in use.
Replace those incandescent light bulbs with energy saving flourescent bulbs. Flourescent bulbs may be more expensive but they last longer than incandescent lights, so it's better in the long run.
Make sure that your home is properly insulated. It's easy for cool air to leak through cracks in windows and door frames. A properly insulated home can improve energy efficiency by up to 20%.
Plant more trees around the house. Trees do an excellent job cooling the house in summer and also insulating in winter.
Your refrigerator is one of the biggest energy user in your home so make sure it is properly maintained. Remember to not leave the door open for too long. Make sure that the temperature is set to the manufacturer's specifications. Routinely clean under your refrigerator plus any dust on the coils at the back(if they have them).
Mother nature provides lots of light for us in the day so try to use as much natural light as you possibly can.
Use a programmable electronic thermostat for your cooling and heating needs. You can set this device to automatically adjust settings to energy saving levels. This comes in handy when you are out of the house or asleep.
Check to see if air conditioners and heater filters are free of dust and debris.
Only purchase energy efficient appliances. They will save you lots of money in the future.
Close blinds or window treatments if you have the air conditioner on. Rooms get hotter without shades or curtains to block the sunlight.
Unplug cell phone or any other chargers from the wall when not in use. Did you know that cell phone chargers continue to use energy even if the phone is not connected?
Check the weatherstripping on all exterior doors to make sure they are in good shape. Replace them if they are not.
Controlling your energy consumption is not as difficult as you may think. If you make a conscious effort you can save yourself lots of money on electricity bills. It could be as simple as switching off those lights.
