Energy efficiency is using less energy to perform the same task or produce the same result.
Q: Will being more energy efficient help reduce my electric bill?
A: Yes, being more energy efficient can help reduce your electric bill. When you use energy more efficiently, you use less electricity.
Q: Is it expensive to make energy-efficient improvements to my home or business?
A: Improving your home’s energy efficiency doesn’t always require a substantial upfront investment. There are many low-cost or even no-cost measures you can take. Here are 10:
- Regular maintenance: Keep your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system well-maintained and operating efficiently by regularly changing filters and scheduling professional tune-ups as outlined in your systems manual.
- Seal air leaks: Check for drafts around doors, windows, and electrical outlets. Use weatherstripping, caulking, or draft stoppers to seal leaks and prevent hot or cold air from entering or escaping your home.
- Use energy-efficient lighting: Replace incandescent and CFL bulbs with LEDs. While LEDs can have a higher upfront cost, they last much longer and consume significantly less energy, resulting in long-term savings.
- Unplug electronics: Many electronics and appliances consume energy, even when turned off or in standby mode. Unplug devices or use power strips to disconnect multiple devices easily when not in use.
- Insulate: Adding insulation to your attic, walls, and floors can help prevent heat loss in the winter and keep your home cooler in the summer.
- Utilize natural light: During the day, open window coverings to take advantage of natural light.
- Install energy-efficient fixtures: Install low-flow showerheads, faucet aerators, and efficient toilets to reduce water usage and energy required for heating water.
- Let the sunshine in: On sunny days, open window coverings to allow the sun to warm the rooms naturally without using electricity. On warm days, close the curtains or blinds to help keep your house cool.
- Fill it up: Wash full loads, whether clothes or dishes. Washing multiple small loads means you’re using and heating more water. Using cold water for clothes washing can also help lower your energy costs.
- Adjust thermostat settings: Lower your thermostat in the winter and raise it in the summer to reduce heating and cooling costs. Consider using a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust temperatures when you’re away from home or sleeping.