Save Money On Your Utilities
It's easy to save money on your utilities if you just learn to conserve a little. Cutting back and knowing your peak hours for usage can help with saving money in the long run. Here are a few tips to help you conserve energy.
In the winter, set your furnace thermostat at 68 degrees or lower and for the summer months, set your air conditioner thermostat at 78 degrees or higher. Did you know that 3 percent to 5 percent more energy is used for each degree the furnace is set above 68 degrees and for each degree the air conditioner is set below 78 degrees? It would be a good idea to purchase and install a programmable thermostat. They're fairly inexpensive and surprisingly easy to install. That way you can set your thermostat for certain times of the day to help regulate your energy usage.
Set your water temperature at 140 degrees. You'll be surprised at the amount you can save on gas by lowering the temperature by a few degrees. While you're at it, install energy saver shower heads.
I read recently that a single dripping hot water faucet can waste 212 gallons of water a month. That not only increases water bills, but also increases the gas or electric bill for heating the water. Also, wash only full loads in your dishwasher on the shortest cycle needed to get your dishes clean. Skip the drying cycle by opening the door and allowing your dishes to dry naturally.
- Use low wattage fluorescent lamps
- Replace old windows with dual pane windows
- Replace furnace and air conditioner filters on a regular basis
- Defrost refrigerators and freezers as needed
- Weatherstrip around windows and doors
