Learn several tips on how to save energy during winter and summer time and also use year around to help keep your energy bills low.
1. Unplugging your unused electrical item when you not in used such as:
- coffee maker
- toaster
- rechargeable item like cell phone, battery chargers etc
2. Turn of your computer while you are not in use. It means turn it off, not put on sleep-mode, including printer, copier, monitor etc.
3. Replacing your old windows with energy efficient models and installed correctly to avoid air leaks around the frame. In temperate climates with both heating and cooling season, select window with both low U-values and low solar heat gain co-efficiency (SHGC) to maximize energy benefits
4. Check the insulation in your attic,ceilings,exterior and basement walls, floor and crawl spaces by retaining both the heat and cool air into your home instead of letting it escape through poor insulation. Keep in mind that insulation and sealing air leak will help your energy performance.
5. Install a programmable thermostat that can be adjust the temperature according to your schedule
6. Installed white window shades, drapers, or blinds to reflect heat away from home in summer. In winter open shades on sunny days to help warm rooms
7. Changing furnace filters regularly helps your unit run year round as well in both heat and cool modes
8. Space heaters and fans help create air flow within your home
9. Insulate your hot water heater and hot water pipes to prevent heat loss
10. If heating a swimming pool, consider a swimming pool cover. Evaporation is by far the largest source of energy loss in swimming pools. Also decreasing the amount of time outdoor or indoor pool’s filter system running time to a minimum. Consult with your pool professional to find the optimal amount of time that the system should run each day to keep the pool clean while at the time using as little energy as possible. You may consider building your own solar panel or wind turbine to power your pool pump.
11.During the cooling season, keep the window coverings closed during the day to prevent solar gain.
As you can see over the tips we suggested that can help you save on your energy bill. Some of the tips are easy enough to do if you are the do-it-yourself (DIY) type and easy to follow and implement. While others may require more effort and investment, but promise big savings over the years.
Source by Lynda Levi
