The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy has
numerous great cost savings and energy tips for in and around your home (interior and exterior) that you can implement right away. Here are some highlights and ‘to do’ list(s) for the serious home-owner taking issue with saving energy and dollars, being and running a more responsible, conserving and efficient house, household and property all round.
No-cost/low-cost steps you can take to save energy
Water-heater temperature: Especially if you do have children in the house, turn the warmer setting down somewhat to the recommended 120 degrees F (safe and saves money!).
Cover water-beds as they will be insulated that way.
All major appliances have some energy settings (refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, clothes dryers) – utilize them.
Use compact fluorescents (CFLs) and low energy bulb replacements to cut down on electricity consumption and waste.
Upgrade old energy-guzzlers in your home (refrigerator, dishwasher, stove, furnace, A/C and others). Look for theenergy efficient symbols and endorsements.
Clean or replace furnace, air-conditioner, and heat-pump filters.
Water-heater blanket, low-flow showerheads, faucet aerators to cut consumption and waste.
Seal, caulk and repair all leaks, holes and drafts (walls, doors, windows, floors, corners, cracks and crevices, garage, basement etc.)
Heating and cooling systems, duct work inspected, repaired and/or replaced as applicable.
Actually track and check your consumption/waste. You will or might be pleasantly surprised at what you will typically find. Go back 6 months to a year and look at your bills. Split them into what you pay for fuel/gas and electricity, utilities (water/sewage)
See where and when, why the most/highest bills/costs are and try to find ways to cut down, save and lower consumption during those times.
Check all insulation, also on hot water pipes and ducts, through unheated areas specifically.
Air-leaks and drafts, gaps around chimneys, recessed lights in insulated ceilings, and unfinished spaces behind cupboards and closets.
Use your thermostat to turn temperature up/down a degree or two when it matters most (at night) to be more efficient and aware. Before you know it this will turn into second nature and some great new habits.
Educate and empower yourself, your kids, your family and friends. Spread the word about cost and energy savings, raise awareness, advocate and value the contribution(s) you are making, no matter how large or small you might deem them to be.
No-cost/low-cost steps you can take to save energy
Water-heater temperature: Especially if you do have children in the house, turn the warmer setting down somewhat to the recommended 120 degrees F (safe and saves money!).
Cover water-beds as they will be insulated that way.
All major appliances have some energy settings (refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, clothes dryers) – utilize them.
Use compact fluorescents (CFLs) and low energy bulb replacements to cut down on electricity consumption and waste.
Upgrade old energy-guzzlers in your home (refrigerator, dishwasher, stove, furnace, A/C and others). Look for theenergy efficient symbols and endorsements.
Clean or replace furnace, air-conditioner, and heat-pump filters.
Water-heater blanket, low-flow showerheads, faucet aerators to cut consumption and waste.
Seal, caulk and repair all leaks, holes and drafts (walls, doors, windows, floors, corners, cracks and crevices, garage, basement etc.)
Heating and cooling systems, duct work inspected, repaired and/or replaced as applicable.
Actually track and check your consumption/waste. You will or might be pleasantly surprised at what you will typically find. Go back 6 months to a year and look at your bills. Split them into what you pay for fuel/gas and electricity, utilities (water/sewage)
See where and when, why the most/highest bills/costs are and try to find ways to cut down, save and lower consumption during those times.
Check all insulation, also on hot water pipes and ducts, through unheated areas specifically.
Air-leaks and drafts, gaps around chimneys, recessed lights in insulated ceilings, and unfinished spaces behind cupboards and closets.
Use your thermostat to turn temperature up/down a degree or two when it matters most (at night) to be more efficient and aware. Before you know it this will turn into second nature and some great new habits.
Educate and empower yourself, your kids, your family and friends. Spread the word about cost and energy savings, raise awareness, advocate and value the contribution(s) you are making, no matter how large or small you might deem them to be.
posted by Nadim at 5:24 AM
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