If you’re looking for ways to save money, especially during the winter months when energy costs go up, we’ve got plenty of ideas for you. Here are some relatively simple ways to save both energy and money and do a small part to be eco-friendly in your home:
- How often do you actually use the hottest water that your sink or shower faucet can produce? By turning down the water heater in your home to about 120 degrees, you’ll save both money and energy.
- Consider unplugging. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 75 percent of electricity used in the home is consumed by products that are actually turned off. It might seem time-consuming or difficult to unplug every appliance after you use it, but consider what you use most frequently. It might not make sense to unplug your bedside lamp that you use for reading every night, and it definitely doesn’t make sense – and can even be dangerous – to unplug your electric stove. But if you use the blender and toaster only once a week each, there’s no reason to leave them plugged in. One easy solution would be to plug your devices into power strips and simply flip the switch every night to turn them off in unison.
- Rather than incandescent bulbs, switch to compact fluorescent lamps, or CFLs. These bulbs use 75 percent less energy, pay for themselves in about five or six months, last 10 to 15 times longer and will save you $30 during each bulb’s lifetime.
- If your windows aren’t very energy efficient, rather than purchasing new windows, which can be very expensive, opt for solar window film. It reduces your energy bill and blocks UV rays.
- Seal air leaks in your home – search in typically hidden areas like basements, attics, recessed lights and plumbing vents. Have a professional seal them if necessary.
- Make sure your doors have proper weather stripping, which will keep the cold air out and the warm air in during the winter, lowering your heating bill.
- If you need to purchase new appliances, look for products that are ENERGY STAR qualified. They will likely cost a bit more than other appliances up front, but they should pay for themselves in the long run in increased energy efficiency.
