The average household in the United States will spend about $1,392 to heat their homes this year, according to U.S. Department of Energy, but you can spend less with these simple yet effective energy efficient home saving tips.
1• Cover all bare floors. Carpeting or rugs add comfort and heat retention, especially if there is little or no floor insulation.
2• Raise the thermostat slowly to keep your bill lower. Quickly raising your heat pump’s temperature activates a heat strip, which uses tons of energy.
3• Lower Your Thermostat temperature. You can save three percent on your energy bill for each degree you lower your thermostat. Simply reduce the thermostat at night or when away.
4• Limit Your Use of Portable Heaters. They are great for ‘spot heating’ but running a 1,500-watt heater 24/7 is very expensive.
5• Heat Your Home with the Sun’s Help. Leave window shades and blinds open during the daylight hours.
6• Lower Your Thermostat every time you leave the house.
7• Don’t Block Air Vents with drapes and furniture.
8• Change the Filters in your heating system every month for optimum efficiency.
9• Close the Flue in Your Fireplace and install glass doors to keep the warm air in.
10• Wash Clothes with Cold Water, you can save 40 cents on each load, decreasing your utility bill by $63 per year.
11• Check Your Hot Water Pipes for Leaks, which can drain your energy savings
12• Shorten Your Showers to cut your heating hot water costs
13• Insulate the first six feet of the hot and cold water pipes connected to the water heater. It’ll keep your comfort high and your energy bills low.
14• Get an insulation wrap for your old water heater. It will heat more effectively
15• Set your water heater temperature to 140 degrees to 120 degrees— it will save you money while keeping water hot enough for showers and washing dishes.
16• Install a timer for your water heater that will turn off when you are not at home.
17• Install Low-flow faucets and shower heads, saves on water bill
18• Look for the Energy Star Labels when purchasing appliances. Save the consumer up 30 percent on related energy cost.
19• Seal Air Leaks and properly insulate your home can save you up to 20 percent on heating costs.
20• Stay Abreast of Environmental Issues from your elected officials to ensure energy efficient tax credits and incentives are offered in your state or local city.
To find more energy efficient saving tips, visit: thegreenambassador.org.
Cathy Allen, The Green Ambassador – Ecobroker Associate Realtor® with Taylor Properties, International Certification in Energy Efficiency for Homes, Buildings and Land, Award-Winning Urban Environmentalist, Master Garden-University of Maryland Baltimore City Extension, Chair. She has spearheaded the planting of over half-million trees on the lawns of Baltimore City Public Schools.