According to the United States Department of Energy, “The typical U.S. family spends about $1,900 a year on home utility bills.” (Yikes!)
Typical Home Energy Usage:
(Chart: US Department of Energy – Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy)
To cut your energy use up an estimated 25%, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends these tips:
10 Easy Energy Savings Tips:
1. Turn off your computer & monitor when you’re not using it.
2. Use compact fluorescent lights. (CFL’s) use up to 75% less energy than standard incandescent bulbs and last up to 10 times longer, according to Home Energy Saver.
3. Air dry dishes instead of using your dishwasher’s drying cycle.
4. Power Strip It: Plug home electronics, such as TVs, DVD players, cell phone chargers, etc. into power strips and turn off the power strips when they’re not in use. (Even in standby mode these items still use several watts of power. According to the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory Standby power for appliances not in use typically accounts for 5% to 10% of residential electricity use!)
5. Lower the thermostaton your hot water heater to 120°F & invest in a programmable thermostat so you can manage the house temperatures when asleep or away.
6. Take short showers instead of baths & wash full loads of dishes and clothes.
7. Keep it clean. Clean air filters monthly for central air and individual window or wall units. Dirt and dust hinder airflow — reducing efficiency.
8. Seal the house. Cooled air can leak through cracks along window and doorframes. Seal with caulk or weather-stripping to plug these drafts. A home that’s properly insulated and sealed improves energy efficiency by up to 20% year-round, according to the Alliance to Save Energy.
9. Close the blinds/Use thermal curtains. Save on cooling costs by keeping the room cool with blinds during summer. And during winder, use thermal curtains or insulated window treatments for added insulation!
10. Buy Energy Efficient: When you’re ready to purchase new appliances energy-efficient products (appliances with the ENERGY STAR label are certified as energy-savers.)
For even more detailed info., check out: www.energysavers.gov for energy-saving ideas.
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