Here are eight energy-saving tips that cost little to nothing, but can reduce the amount you spend with your energy utilities. You would be surprised how much energy can be saved!
If your dishwasher has a filter, keep it clean. A dirty filter reduces the effectiveness of your dishwasher and it causes the pump to work quite a bit harder to empty out wash and rinse water.
Clean your light bulbs and fixtures. Dust can settle on light fixtures and bulbs, which in turn will reduce the available light. For incandescent bulbs, carefully clean with a soft cloth. Extra care should be used when cleaning compact fluorescent bulbs. Clean covers, globes and diffusers as well, especially in the kitchen where grime can be stubborn.
Clean the coils of your refrigerator. Dirt and dust accumulate on the coils of your refrigerator, which can make it harder for them to disperse heat. Removing the dust from them will make your refrigerator more efficient, reducing the power it uses.
Clean your refrigerator gaskets. An incomplete seal on your refrigerator door can really use up a great deal of energy. Wipe down the gaskets as part of your routine cleanup.
Change your Heat/AC filter. A dirty filter restricts airflow, which in turn makes the fan of your heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit work harder. Check it regularly and change the filter when needed.
Adjust the thermostat when away from your home. If you get into the habit of lowering the thermostat as you leave the house for more than an hour or two, you can save a great deal. Just a change in 10-15 degrees while gone during the workday can save hundreds per year in your heating and cooling costs. Consider a programmable thermostat to make these adjustments automatically!
Open shades on a sunny winter day. If you are enjoying a sunny winter day, open the shades on the side of the house receiving free heat from the sun.
Keep your air conditioning unit clear of debris and the coils clean. Your air conditioning/heat pump unit that sits outside your home has to have good airflow to work properly. Keep yard items from accumulating around the unit, and periodically check to make sure the coils are not clogged with debris. If you see dirty coils, you may want to schedule a maintenance visit from a reputable heating and cooling contractor if you are unfamiliar with giving it a thorough cleaning.
Saving energy is the same as saving money, and using less energy is a key part of conservation. For answers to insurance questions, please contact one of our independent insurance agents at 314-434-0038.
