Could you live without the Internet, a cell phone or television? In today’s digital age where we strive to be constantly connected studies show that the average American household owns 23 consumer electronic devices. We are increasingly dependent on electronics and despite an increased awareness of the environmental impact of electricity usage and the huge gains made in energy efficiency, our demand for power is ever-increasing.
Taking steps towards electricity savings need not dramatically impact our lifestyles but it can significantly affect our planet’s health and our household budget. Using electricity wisely can help you take control of your bills and reduce your carbon footprint since electricity is the primary energy source for most of our household systems, our appliances and devices. Homes are bigger today than they were just a generation ago and open floor plans containing a lot of vertical space require more energy use.
Take the time to analyze your home from top to bottom to start on your electricity savings. Start in the attic by weather stripping your attic door or hatch to prevent air from leaking in and out. Install additional insulation if necessary and make sure that vents that allow heat buildup to be released are sufficiently large enough to be optimally efficient.
By dialing down the thermostat in the winter and upping the A/C by a few degrees in the summer, you will save significant heating and cooling costs and will soon adjust to the new normal temperature. In winter months when the air is dry, run a humidifier in each bedroom. The moist air will feel more comfortable at a lower temperature. Unused guest bedrooms should be sealed off by closing the air vents and shutting the door. Use task lighting and reading lamps rather than illuminating the entire room.
Survey the kitchen and bathrooms for big electricity savings. Energy Star appliances increase efficiency. Run only full loads in the dishwasher and clothes washer and limit the use of the clothes dryer by drip-drying clothes on racks or a clothesline. Don’t stand in front of the refrigerator with the door open. Turn off the water while brushing teeth, shaving and hand-washing dishes. Reduce your shower by two minutes and install a low-flow showerhead. Electricity savings can be significant in kitchens and bathrooms just by turning off the lights when not in use. As the busiest rooms in the house, they typically use the most energy.
Your home’s basement holds plenty of opportunity for electricity savings. Replace furnace filters monthly to improve efficiency. You can easily insulate your hot water heater and water pipes with an inexpensive kit from the local hardware store. Reduce your water temperature to 120 degrees and use only cold water for clothes washing.
A walk around the exterior of your home reveals even more electricity saving options. Make sure your front door fits properly and weather strip around all exterior doors and windows. Install energy efficient storm doors on every entrance to the house. If you have an attached garage, make sure the door is shut to prevent air leaks. Use motion sensor exterior lights or a timer so lights are off during the daylight hours.
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