|
 As autumn is upon us, you might want to start thinking about how to lower the cost of heating your house this winter. A few simple home improvement projects can make an impact in your monthly energy bills.
If you're willing to invest a little time and money up front for savings down the line, here are a few tips:
Seal air leaks. An "average" American home can save an average of $81/year by sealing large air leaks in the home. Use weather-stripping, spray foam, and/or caulk to stop the air you're paying to heat or cool from seeping out from around windows and doors.
Adjust your water heater. The third largest energy expense in your home according to The Department of Energy is water heating. You can save 3% to 5% in energy costs for every 10 degrees you lower your water heater's thermostat. Insulating your water heater and surrounding pipes will add up to greater savings as well.
Control your thermostat. Good advice is to invest in a programmable thermostat to save about $180 a year based on a calculation of 1% savings for each degree you lower your thermostat over an 8-hour period. Set it for 68 to 70 degrees in the winter when you're at home or awake, lower it when you are out of the home or asleep. (Aim for 78 degrees in the summer for A/C.)
Maintain your furnace and air-conditioning. Regular maintenance will keep heating and cooling systems operating most efficiently. Change filters about once a month.
More free and easy things you can do
· Wash your clothes in cold water.
· Turn off unneeded lights and electrical devices.
· Unplug an extra fridge.
· Use the energy-saving mode on appliances.
Have other energy saving tips? Post them here!
|