According to the Department of Energy, Energy Costs are expected to rise by 10% this summer. There are things that you can do to save money and we are here to help.
Heating and Cooling: By turning your thermostat to 68 degrees you can save 10% a year on heating costs. Keeping your Water heater set to 120 degrees can also save you 10% a year.
Appliances: I know this can be a pricey proposition for some folks but my making sure you have or you replace all of your appliances with energy star rated efficient you will save money. Typically, our appliances make up 20% of our energy bill. For example, we turned off our hot tub last year and that cut our electric bill by $250 a month. In addition we replaced our refrigerator, disconnected a freezer and saved $50.00 a month.
Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs: I'm not a huge fan of these light bulbs as the lighting quality is just not as good as traditional light bulbs. Nevertheless, by upgrading to just 15 of these bulbs throughout your house you can save $50.00 a year in lighting costs. They do last longer then traditional bulbs but I have noticed over time their lighting begins to fade.
Sealing Gaps around Windows and Doors and in the Garage: Replacing windows is a costly venture. However, you can save big by sealing all around your doors and windows. With an air combustion test you can see all of the energy that is leaking out through these spaces. Also, remember to close that damper on your fireplace or wood stove when not in use.
Insulating: Over 20% of the homes built prior to 1980 are not properly insulated. By insultaing all exterior walls and attics you can save $1,000 a year on your energy costs.
Phantom Power: All the device that you keep plugged in that have led light displays cost you about $6.00 a month. That's $78.00 a year. By turning these items off you save. We have ours plugged into power strips so it's easy at the end of the day to just turn off the power strip to save.
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