Although homeowners can’t control the increases in gas and electricity costs, they can change their behavior at home to limit the costs they may incur. Home inspection services often include inspecting for cracks or air leaks that may incur costs as well. Consider the energy-saving tips below to reduce your gas and electric bills. Turn down your furnace in the winter when you go to bed and when you leave your home. Most people don’t require the same temperature to sleep comfortably as they do when they’re awake and out of bed. Take advantage of your blanket and turn the heat down when you get under the covers. Check and change or clean your furnace and air conditioner filters on a monthly basis. Furnace filters protect the system and the air from dust, dander, spores, and pollen. Keeping these particles out means they collect on the filter. When not dealt with regularly, this build-up makes the filter less effective, and causes the heating and cooling system to work harder, cost more and provide less comfort. If you have a “smart electric meter”, only use your major appliances (dishwasher, washing machine, dryer, etc.) during off-peak times. If your house has a “smart meter”, your utility company can charge different rates for electricity at different times of the day, depending on usage. Be aware of peak and off-peak times to use your appliances. Monday after work might be a convenient time for you to do your laundry, but it’s also one of the most expensive. Unplug your appliances at night and when not in use for an extended period of time to avoid phantom energy consumption. Many appliances draw a small amount of power when they aren’t turned on or in use. This is called “phantom power”. Unplug your TV, computer, or toaster (not your refrigerator or freezer). Improve the weather stripping around your doors and windows, and where possible, seal the cracks around your home. Homes should not be completely airtight – we need air to breathe! Many homes however, are draftier than we need or want. Check the exterior of your home and seal any unnecessary openings with weather-resistant sealant. Make sure doors and windows are flush against their frames and sill, and use weather stripping to fill any gaps. We hope the items above help keep your home running efficiently and keep your wallet a bit thicker.
Posted on: Thu, 08 Jan 2015 20:12:58 +0000
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