6 Simple Ways to Save Energy
A single light bulb switch can have such a major impact, imagine the difference you can make with these quick and free changes. To reduce energy consumption in your home and increase your energy savings, you do not necessarily need to go out and purchase energy-efficient products. Energy conservation can be as simple as turning off lights or appliances when you do not need them. You can also use energy-intensive appliances less by performing household tasks manually, such as hang-drying your clothes instead of putting them in the dryer, or washing dishes by hand.
The behavior adjustments that have the highest potential for utility savings are turning down the heat on your thermostat in the winter and using your air conditioner less in the summer. Heating and cooling costs constitute nearly half of an average home’s utility bills, so these reductions in the intensity and frequency of heating and cooling offer the greatest savings.
Light Bulbs
Traditional incandescent light bulbs consume an excessive amount of electricity and must be replaced more often than their energy-efficient alternatives. Although energy-efficient bulbs are more expensive off the shelf, their efficient energy use and longer lifetimes mean that they cost less in the long run.
Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat can be set to automatically turn off or reduce heating and cooling during the times when you are asleep or away. When you install a programmable thermostat, you eliminate wasteful energy use from heating and cooling without upgrading your HVAC system.
Ceiling Fan
Used smartly, ceiling fans can help you save on your energy bills. Most modern ceiling fans have an option to allow them to spin both ways. In the summer, make sure your fan is blowing air downward to help you feel cooler. In the winter, reverse the direction the blades are rotating to produce an updraft and force the warm air collecting near the ceiling down into the living space. Ceiling fans only cool the individual sitting under them, not the room, so remember to turn them off when you leave the room.
Drapes And Shades
During Winter, keep drapes and shade open during the day to capture as much heat from the sun as possible. Close them once the sun goes down to keep the heat in. During Summer, keep drapes and shade closed to keep the sun out and the room cool.
Light Switches
Always turn off the lights in an empty room. Don't get lazy with this. If you need motivation, just think about the size of your last utility bill.
More: How to Make a House More Efficient
Power Outlets
Always unplug any chargers or power adapters when they’re not in use.
To reduce your energy bill even further, you need to make sure you’re never paying more for your utilities than you need to do. For more information on energy-saving homes or real estate in San Diego, contact our office at any time.
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