The majority of your energy bill is from your heating and cooling costs. Now is the time to make some energy-saving changes.
- Install a programmable thermostat.
- Set thermostat to 78 degrees in the summer, and 68 degrees in the winter.
- Close doors to rooms you are not using. This will help either heat or cool the main areas of your home more effectively.
- During summer months, keep your curtains drawn and blinds shut to help keep your home cool.
- During the winter months, keep your southern and western window shades open to help warm the house.
- Use your fans when you can during summer months in place of turning on your air conditioner.
- Replace air filters every month so your heating and cooling systems function at their optimal level.
- Is it time for a new air conditioning unit? If it's more than 15 years old, it may be time to replace it with an energy-efficient model. You could save up to 40% with a new model.
- Speaking of... When searching for new appliances, use online resources (like Energystar.gov and Energysaver.gov) to help you find the most efficient products.
- Shading can help cut air conditioning costs by reducing heat from direct sunlight. Plant trees with high, spreading branches on the south side of your home.
- Trees, shrubs, and ground cover plants help shade the ground and pavement around your home, cooling the air before it reaches your home’s walls and windows.
- Search your local nursery for outdoor plants and shrubs that require less water.
