Here are some helpful energy saving tips for your home. Please look for more helpful tips to be posted soon.
Humidifier
Turn your humidifier off when it is warm. Your air conditioning unit cannot cool or dehumidify indoor air if the humidifier is still on.
Ceiling Fan
Set your ceiling fan properly. When it is warm indoors, cool air sinks to the floor and hot air moves to the ceiling. Switch your fan’s direction setting to the forward/counter-clockwise position during summer months. The fan blades push warm air down, forcing the cool air near the floor up and out to the edges of the room. Moving and circulating indoor air can reduce the perceived indoor temperature by up to four degrees.
Air Conditioner Unit
Clean your outdoor unit. Allowing an outdoor unit to collect dust, dirt and debris not only reduces its life expectancy, it causes maintenance issues and makes it run less efficiently. According to Cornell University, your air conditioner cools air more effectively, reducing your energy use by up to 15 percent
Windows
Keep windows covered. Closing blinds and window coverings on the sunny side of your home during the day blocks the sun’s heat.
Running Your Appliances
Use appliances wisely. Wait until the cooler evening hours to do tasks such as laundry or cooking, which make your house warmer. Instead, use the microwave, or barbeque outside, and bypass your clothes dryer completely if applicable by letting items air dry outside.
Upgrade Your Thermostat
The savings from programmable thermostats are well-documented. Buy a smart model like the Ecobee3. You’ll save up to 12 percent on your heating and 15 percent on your cooling bills. Plus, rebates and incentives are available
Keep Your Ducts Clean
The National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) recommends that homeowners have their air ducts cleaned at least once every three to five years. Homeowners with asthma or allergies should have their ducts cleaned yearly.
Insulate Your Home and Duct System.
While most homeowners know that proper insulation can save money on family heating and cooling expenses by reducing heat and cooling losses, non insulated ducts can raise your bill as well. Leaky ducts flowing into unheated spaces add significant costs to your heating and cooling costs. Install proper insulation for your existing duct work and ensure your new duct system is insulated.
