Everyone wants to save money where they can these days, which is completely understandable. That’s why those of us here at AccuTemp have compiled a list of things that you probably didn’t know about your home and how it’s stealing energy and money from you.
First, be aware of where you place your thermostat. You want to make sure it isn’t near anything that gives off lots of heat. A near by lamp can cost you money. Basically, the heat from it is telling the thermostat that it’s warmer in your home than it is, which will cause your air conditioner to run longer.
Second, your lights actually cost you about 10% of your energy bill. Aside from the obvious, turning off lights you aren’t using, trying switching bulbs. Throw out the incandescent bulbs and replace with compact fluorescent bulbs (CFL’s). This can cut your lighting bill by about 75%!
Third, run your air conditioner as close to the outdoor temperature as possible. Setting your thermostat on 78° as opposed to 72° can save you somewhere between 6% and 8% on your energy bill.
Fourth, when landscaping, be mindful of where you plant trees. Trees that provide shade can keep your home cooler and end up saving you up to $250 per year!
Fifth, make sure the technician inspects your duct work during your annual air conditioning maintenance. On average, homes lose about 20% of cool air through their ducts. Let’s say your ducts are ran through your attic or basement and you have a duct that has become a little loose. Air is escaping through there and cooling your attic or basement. This is obviously unnecessary and costing you precious dollars.
Sixth, make sure you run the ceiling fan in the room you are in. It can make you feel about 4° cooler than the actual temperature.
Seventh, did you know that your water heater makes up for anywhere between about 14% and 25% of your energy bill? By turning the temperature down a little, you will save money. Who needs a scalding hot shower during the middle of the sweltering summer anyway?
Eighth, try to avoid using your oven. It heats up your space rather quickly and will make your air conditioner run longer. Try using a toaster over instead when possible.
Ninth, unplug appliances that aren’t in use. This can account for more of your bill than you may think. Although they aren’t using the same amount of energy as though they were actually on, but being plugged in, they still are using some energy. You can save about $75 per year by doing this.
Tenth, if you don’t already have one, invest in a programmable thermostat. They can save you lots of money through the year! You can set the temperature a few degrees higher when you leave and have it automatically start cooling your home an hour before you return to ensure you stay comfortable. Unsure which one to get? Check this out.
Have more tips that may be useful to those looking to save money? Let us know in the comments below!
Be sure to share this useful guide with your friends!
