With the rising cost of energy, summer is a time when your electric bill can skyrocket. Here are a few energy saving tips to keep those costs down in
the following months.
- Raise your thermostat setting. According to the Department of Energy, raising your air conditioning thermostat at night or when you’re away from home can save 5 to 15 percent. Also, installing a programmable thermostat will automate those savings and help you save even more.
- Lower the temperature of your water heater. Water heating is typically the third largest energy expense for a family. Lowering your water heater temperature to 120 degrees will reduce heating costs without sacrificing any of the comfort.
- Wash with cold water. Wash and rinse your clothes in cold water instead of hot to save on water heating. Also remember to set the water level on your washer to match the size of the load and save on both energy and water.
- Use a fan. Ceiling fans will allow you to raise the thermostat setting in your home about four degrees without impacting your comfort.
- Cook smarter. Don’t heat your home with cooking appliances. On hot days, consider using an outdoor grill instead of your oven.