I recently read an article by US NEWS on 10 ways to lower your electrical bills and wanted to pass it along.
- Unplug electric devices- unplug devices when you are not using them. If that's a hassle, consider buying a Smart Strip, which automatically cuts power when devices don't need it.
- Use your fans- This helps circulate air and may keep the air conditioner from coming on sooner.
- Close Doors- Close doors and vents to areas of the house you are not using
- add insulation- homes can leak cold air during the summer and hot air during the winter. Fill these gaps with insulation; Squirting spray foam into drilled holes in the wall might do the trick.
- Turn off Lights when you are not using them- we were all taught this one growing up. Thanks Mom
- Get your AC checked out- Is it leaking or maybe it is not working as smoothly as it could be.
- Reduce your AC when you are not home- Set the thermostat to reduce the AC when you are out of the house
- Hang Laundry outside- This obviously saves you money since you do not need to use the dryer
- Shade- Having trees shade your home help reduce the electric bills. If do not have any shady, plant some trees.
- Do not use your Oven- This will cause your AC to have to work harder to cool the room. Try to make more salads and other cold food in the summer, or use the toaster oven for small portions.
I hope you found this helpful. For the full article: http://money.usnews.com/money/personal-finance/articles/2010/05/04/10-ways-to-reduce-your-summer-utility-bills.html.
David Krichmar
Mortgage Banker NMLS#293883
Weststar Mortgage Corporation #93243 dba Core Lending
Has Written For Realtor Magazine, Houston Agent Magazine, Scotsman Mortgage Guide
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David, thanks for sharing consevation tips. Good info for buyers and sellers. Best Regards,
David, such a great list of helpful things. If I can add one, how about getting all your windows that face the sun... coated with that e-film stuff ?
Great Idea Carolyn!
Nice post Dave. Here in NJ we now have the opportunity to shop our energy provider. Most people do not know that! Saves me about $10-$15 a month!
Great News for NJ. Thanks Bob