10 Energy Saving Tips that are Good for Your Wallet and the Environment
We all know the struggle of suddenly facing a huge PECO energy bill. Whether you’ve been blasting the A/C to get through a heat wave, or your Christmas lights are bleeding you dry, there are just certain times of year that really make your energy bill spike. With these energy saving tips, you can lower your overall usage, which might make those increases a little less noticeable and can also have an impact on the environment. It’s a win-win!
1. Change all of your lightbulbs to LED bulbs
LED bulbs are far more efficient than other bulbs. They emit 95% light and only 5% heat, whereas incandescent bulbs are the opposite, producing only 5% light. LED bulbs also last longer at 20,000–30,000 hours per bulb (about 20 years) as opposed to around 1,000 hours for an incandescent bulb.
Source: LifeHacker
2. Seal cracks and gaps
Sealing cracks and gaps and making sure your home is properly insulated can save an average of 11% on total energy costs and 15% on heating and cooling costs.
Source: Energy Star
3. Clean or replace filters regularly
Air filters should be changed at least every 3 months, but should be checked monthly during heavy use times like summer and winter. A dirty filter slows down air flow and can make the system work harder and waste energy.
Source: Energy Star
4. Wash your clothes in cold water
Not only is it more energy efficient, but cold water is also better for the life of your clothes. By using cold water, you can save on average 90% of the energy you use with every load of laundry.
Source: Tide
5. Unplug your electronics
Leaving cords plugged in can use more energy than you’d think. The easiest way to do this is to use a power strip that you can turn off when not in use.
6. Program your thermostat
Set times for your air conditioner or heating system to run so you don’t waste energy heating or cooling an empty house.
7. Upgrade your windows
Consider replacing your windows with more energy efficient windows. Heat gain and heat loss through windows are responsible for 25%–30% of residential heating and cooling energy use, so this should not be overlooked.
Source: Energy.gov
8. Use the sun to help heat your home
Once you have energy efficient windows, you can open blinds and curtains in winter months to allow the sun in to warm your home. Conversely, close blinds during summer months.
9. Buy energy efficient appliances
When replacing appliances, look for the Energy Star label. In addition, be sure not to place your appliances near the thermostat as the heat they emit can cause incorrect readings, leaving you a little chilly in the winter, and making your A/C work overtime in the summer.
10. Don’t charge devices overnight
Most devices only need a few hours to charge, and leaving them plugged in all night long can use excess energy. Not to mention, it’s also not good for your devices’ batteries to be plugged in beyond charging. So plug in during the day and unplug when you hit 100%.
