Most everyone is looking for ways to save money; especially seniors who are aging in place. One way to do that is to reduce the amount of energy used every month. Here are a few ideas for ways you can either cut back or things you can change that can help reduce your monthly energy expenses.
General
- Turn it off if you’re not using it. You could save 2% on your electric bill.
- Unplug appliances that aren’t in use; they still draw electricity.
- Replace air conditioning filters once a month.
- When re-charging cell phones (or other re-chargeable devices), only leave them plugged in as long as it takes to charge them.
- Install a whole house fan and save up to 5% on electricity.
- Install window shades or film to keep the house cooler. Shade trees also can help.
- Have your cooling ducts checked for leaks and sealed; it could save up to 20%!
- Make sure to adjust outdoor lighting timers to save money since it is daylight longer.
- Check and re-install weather stripping, seals and caulk.
- Set your thermostat to 78 when you’re home and 85 when you’re away.
- Use ceiling fans to keep rooms cooler.
- Keep the blinds drawn to cool down your house.
In the kitchen
- Cooking with your microwave uses 1/3 less energy than your stove.
- Use the dishwasher instead of washing by hand; it uses less water.
- Save 1% of your electric bill by air drying your dishes if you use a dishwasher.
- If you have a range hood, use it frequently to vent heat from cooking.
- Grill out and keep cooking costs down.
Laundry
- Do as much of your laundry in cold (or warm if need be) water. Always rinse in cold water.
- Dry your clothes on the line and save money on your energy bill (up to 5%).
- Always run full loads in the dryer when you use it.
- Clean your dryer filters for efficiency.
sources:
1. Consumer Energy Center
2. Pioneer Thinking
3. NSTA
