Let us begin by cutting your heating and cooling cost. The largest portion of your budget goes toward heating and cooling. At certain times of the year, you may see a spike in your power bill. This is largely due to the fact that you may be using more heat or air because of the inefficiency of your home and appliances.
First, we will talk about the minor issues.
- You want to make sure that your doors and windows are sealed. If there is any condensation or air coming in, try using silicone or caulking. Also, weather stripping for these items are, usually, foam and rubber. I prefer the rubber, because I find that the foam does not stick very long, for me. If you use window air conditioners, put weather stripping where the air conditioner meets the window and you will be glad you did. (These come rolled up in a package with a peel-and-stick back.) This will keep out the wind so your air conditioner/heater will not have to work so hard; thus, saving energy and hard-earned money. You can save another 30% on your energy cost by properly insulating your home. Check your insulation to see if it is approximately eight (8) inches thick. Check the attic and inside the walls, if possible. Definitely, check walls that connect to unheated rooms, including the garage. Also, if you have rooms that you use and that are above unheated places (like a garage or a basement), you should insulate the ceiling of those rooms (the garage or the basement). While you are insulating, buy an insulation blanket for your hot water heater. These come in a variety of thicknesses. The thicker the blanket, the more energy you save.
- Replace your air filter often. Although an air filter is very inexpensive, a clean air one can save you a lot of money and headaches. Dust and debris can build up, causing your coil and diffusers to become sluggish. Eventually, you will burn out the unit and have to BUY A NEW ONE!
- STOP CHANGING THE THERMOSTAT, YOU PEOPLE! It seams as if everyone who passes the thermostat changes the temperature. Do not do it! In the winter, you want to set your thermostat at 68* or below, and let it stay that way. In the summer, set the thermostat at 80* or above, and let it stay that way. Use your ceiling fans to circulate the heat/air.
- If your appliances are fifteen (15) years old or older, have them checked by professionals. Don't just get the yellow pages and look one up (like I did several years ago); rather, ask your friends and family if they know a good, reliable major appliance specialist. Also, you can ask your power company if they would check the energy efficiency of your appliances. There may be a small fee, but the pros greatly outweigh the cons on this one.
- You can lower your water heating costs by using less hot water.
- You can save gallons of hot water by closing the sink drain when shaving.
- Constantly running wash or rinse water amounts to about 30 gallons of water per meal; therefore, be sure to use a dish pan and pre-rinse dishes with cold water.
- If you use a flow-control regulator, you can reduce the volume of water by two to four gallons per minute, while increasing pressure to 30 pounds per square inch.
- If you notice that your faucets are leaking, repair them immediately, then, you can save water, energy and money. Dripping faucets overwork the water heater, erode valve seats and cause ugly sink stains. Repair leaking faucets by replacing washers.
- Turn the thermostat on your water heater down to 140°, 120° if you don't use a dishwasher.
- Dishwashers use an average of 15 gallons of hot water per load plus electricity needed to operate the machine. Washing and rinsing dishes by hand three times a day uses more hot water and energy than one load a day in an automatic dishwasher. Here are some tips for operating your dishwasher efficiently:
- Load the dishwasher properly. Never block the dispenser or spray arms. If blocked, the water and detergent will not circulate properly and the dishes will not wash clean. Check your owners manual for proper loading instructions.
- Proper amounts of detergent can eliminate a second wash. Follow the manufacturer's instructions.
- Operate your dishwasher only when it is filled to capacity but not overloaded. This will cut the costs of energy, water and detergent.
- Partial-load cycles, rinse-only cycles, mid-cycle turn-offs and other special features are designed for better energy use and more convenience. Look for them when selecting a new dishwasher.
- Always choose the shortest washing cycle that will clean your dishes, and scrape off heavy food accumulated before loading dishes into the dishwasher.
- Use your dishwasher's "power-saver switch" if it has one to automatically eliminate the drying cycle.
- On hot days, wait to use your dishwasher until night. You will avoid adding heat in the house during the hottest time of the day.
