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Friday, July 11, 2008

10 Ways To Cut Energy Costs Around The Home And Save Money


1.Make Sure Your Home Is Sealed Properly. Once a year you should do a walk through with a caulk gun, and make sure their are no drafts coming in.
2.Don't Run The Dishwasher Until It Is A Full Load.
3.Use Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs. They may cost a bit more than conventional bulbs, but they use a substantially less amount of energy, and last for years. They will easily pay for themselves and save you hundreds of dollars a year on your energy bill!
4.Install Light Dimmers. This is a great way to control the amount of electricity being used, based on the amount of light you need at a particular time.
5. Unplug Devices When They Are Not Being Used. Most devices will suck up energy while plugged in even if they are not being used (ie: cell phone chargers, blow dryers, radios, etc.).
6. Clean Or Change The Filter In Your Furnace Once A Month. Dust and dirt will make your unit much less efficient. Filters are very cheap, and having a clean one will save you lots of money.
7. Install A Programmable Thermostat. You can lower your heating and cooling costs by about 10% just by programming the thermostat to adjust itself during certain times of the day. Click here for a video guide to installing programmable thermostats 8. Make Sure Your Attic Has Adequate Insulation. Install more insulation if necessary. This will save you hundreds of dollars each year on your heating and cooling costs. And the cost for the materials and labor are tax deductible!
9. Take Showers Instead Of Baths. A bath uses many more gallons of water than a shower does.
10. Use Cold Water For Laundry. Their are cold water detergents on the market that will get your clothes as clean as they would be if you had used hot water, but will save you money on your energy bill!

5 comments:

The cup is half full of something I don't like said...

Hi

I stopped by because of your note in the coffee shop. I like your tips. A great additional tip would be to turn down your air/heat. No cooler than 72 in summer and no warmer than 68 in winter.

An additional savings at home is planting a pot garden (not what it sounds like). Grow tomatoes and other easy foods on your porch in pots.

Please stop by at www.inandoutoftruth.blogspot.com.

I'm not sure if you'll think our sites are close enough to link. If so, I'm game.

Oceiana said...

nice ideas!! i never thought of that one about using cold water for laundry!

Anonymous said...

I have started using the energy saving lightbulbs. All the little things help. I like your blog. It's very informational and helpful. http://daysinblue.blogspot.com/

Khalid said...

You've got some pretty cool ideas, although I think the shower vs. bath thing pretty much goes unsaid. The cold water laundry one isn't bad either. :)

ßry™ said...

thanks for the tips! interesting

ßry™
http://bry-hq.blogspot.com