Energy powers our lives. From keeping cool in the summertime to charging a cell phone battery, or even reading this article on a computer screen, nearly all that we do has an impact on how much we consume (and pay for) energy. But finding ways to reduce how much we pay isn’t always easy. In today’s post, we share five simple things you can do to reduce the amount of energy you use, which will ultimately help lower your bill.
1. Audit Energy Use. Do you know how much energy you use? Have an HVAC technician or electrician evaluate your home’s insulation, heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning. Energy audits will also locate hot spots inside the home, find the source of drafts that require weather stripping, and identify construction issues. (Click here for tips on how to choose the right HVAC contractor).
2. Replace Older Appliances with newer models that have an Energy Star rating. For example, according to energystar.gov, an Energy Star washer uses 14 gallons of water per load compared with 27 gallons used by a standard machine.
As an added incentive to upgrade, both SRP (Salt River Project) and APS (Arizona Public Service) utility companies have programs that provide energy rebates for the disposal of old refrigerators and freezers.
3. Flip the Switch. Turn off computer monitors and other home electronics when not in use. Surge protectors make this easy, making it possible to turn off multiple devices with the flip of a single switch.
4. Use Natural Light during daytime hours. Shield windows with shade screens that allow natural light to illuminate living spaces while at the same time keeping the ambient temperature cool. Remember to turn off necessary lighting when not in use.
5. Buy Off-Peak Rates. Do you work during daytime hours? Or, is it possible for you to limit appliance use to certain times of day? These are reasons to consider a time-of-use plan, where consumers pay lower, off-peak hour energy rates.
Jump-start your energy savings. Start with an energy audit from a qualified HVAC technician, and then work towards reducing your energy use with the balance of these tips. Contact an All Mesa Appliance Repair technician to learn more about energy efficiency.
Tell us what you do to reduce your energy bill. Have you tried any of these smart tips? What was the impact on your bill? Be the first to share your story.
Recommend to read: So, You’re Dieting Again? - (Energy Diet)
1. Audit Energy Use. Do you know how much energy you use? Have an HVAC technician or electrician evaluate your home’s insulation, heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning. Energy audits will also locate hot spots inside the home, find the source of drafts that require weather stripping, and identify construction issues. (Click here for tips on how to choose the right HVAC contractor).
2. Replace Older Appliances with newer models that have an Energy Star rating. For example, according to energystar.gov, an Energy Star washer uses 14 gallons of water per load compared with 27 gallons used by a standard machine.
As an added incentive to upgrade, both SRP (Salt River Project) and APS (Arizona Public Service) utility companies have programs that provide energy rebates for the disposal of old refrigerators and freezers.
3. Flip the Switch. Turn off computer monitors and other home electronics when not in use. Surge protectors make this easy, making it possible to turn off multiple devices with the flip of a single switch.
4. Use Natural Light during daytime hours. Shield windows with shade screens that allow natural light to illuminate living spaces while at the same time keeping the ambient temperature cool. Remember to turn off necessary lighting when not in use.
5. Buy Off-Peak Rates. Do you work during daytime hours? Or, is it possible for you to limit appliance use to certain times of day? These are reasons to consider a time-of-use plan, where consumers pay lower, off-peak hour energy rates.
Jump-start your energy savings. Start with an energy audit from a qualified HVAC technician, and then work towards reducing your energy use with the balance of these tips. Contact an All Mesa Appliance Repair technician to learn more about energy efficiency.
Tell us what you do to reduce your energy bill. Have you tried any of these smart tips? What was the impact on your bill? Be the first to share your story.
Recommend to read: So, You’re Dieting Again? - (Energy Diet)
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