Recommended Energy-Saving Tips:
- Seal leaks in ductwork
- Clear space in front of heating units and radiators
- Reduce water usage by using low-flow showerheads
- Insulate the water heater tank and water pipes
- Wash clothes in cold or warm water and rinse with cold
- Dry laundry loads consecutively to maximize dryer efficiency
- Replace incandescent bulbs with efficient compact fluorescent bulbs
- Use timers or motion detectors to turn off lights when not needed
- Install air-sealing gaskets behind switch/outlet cover plates
- Lock windows to create a better seal
- Add weather-stripping and caulking around doors and windows
- Seal around pipes and ducts that penetrate outer walls
No Cost Energy Tips:
Lighting
1. Don't use overhead lights during the daytime, open blinds and curtains instead.
2. Save by making sure the outdoor lights are off when not in use.
Cooking
1. Use microwave instead of stove top when possible, it uses 1/3 less energy.
2. Don't preheat the oven unless you are baking breads and pastries.
Laundry
1. Rinse clothes in cold water and save up to 50% of the energy required.
2. Put a dry towel in the dryer with a wet load of clothes to speed drying time.
Heating
1. Shut off gas furnace pilot in the off season.
2. Keep doors and windows closed when the heat is on and save up to 50% off your heating cost.
Low Cost Energy Tips:
Lighting
1. Replace light bulbs with Energy Star compact fluorescent bulbs. These bulbs use 70-90% less energy than traditional bulbs.
2. Install motion detectors for the outside lighting to save up to 20% of lighting cost.
Cooking
1. Use Energy Star appliances
Water
1. Insulate water heater and water pipes to reduce heat loss.
2. Install on demand tank-less water heater.
Laundry
1. Install an energy efficient, Energy Star, clothes washer to reduce energy consumption and water use.
Heating
1. Purchase and install a programmable thermostat
2. Use caulking and weather stripping to seal air leaks. Drafts through cracks can increase heat loss by 20%.