Common Sense Energy-Saving Tips
Well, the blazing summer days are almost here. Just as we’re financially recovering from our winter energy bills, summer is waiting in the wings to smack us in our wallets again. Here are a few tips that can help you bob and weave and deliver a nice counterpunch. These common sense energy-saving tips may not seem like much individually, but when you add them up, you can make a nice dent in your energy bills.
Filters, Filters, Filters
Your air conditioning unit, whether central air, window, or portable, has a filter or multiple filters. Some are meant to be replaced and some are meant to be cleaned. Regardless of the type of filter or A/C unit, dirty filters lower efficiency. The U.S. DOE (Department of Energy) estimates a 15% loss of efficiency and a 5%-15% increase in energy usage due to dirty filters. Check them at least once a month during heavy usage times to see if they need to be cleaned/replaced.
Seal the Deal
Running the A/C is a necessity, but you don’t want the cool air that’s meant for your living room going outside. Anyone else’s dad routinely chirp about that? “Close the door. I’m not paying to cool the entire neighborhood!” No one else? Just my childhood? Okay, then. Moving on…check your doors and windows for leaks. Weather stripping, caulking, and door snakes are cost-effective ways to keep the cool air in.
Raise the Temp
This one may hurt a little. The DOE and PG&E recommend setting your temperature at 78°F to reduce A/C energy usage. Plus, every degree above 78° represents a 2% savings. I’m not a fan of this one, but don’t shoot the messenger. Speaking of fans…
Use Fans Like a Pro
Whenever possible, it’s best to use ceiling and window fans instead of cranking the air conditioning. It’s a way more cost-effective solution. Ceiling fans don’t lower the temperature, but they do create a wind-chill effect that makes you feel cooler. Set them to spin counterclockwise in summer—yes, they have a summer and winter setting (who knew?)
Windows, Windows, Windows
When the nights are cooler, and if you are able, open the windows instead of running your air conditioner. If you can get some nice cross-ventilation and pair that with some fans, you can save money every night.
During the day, use blackout curtains or shades to keep the sunlight from streaming through your windows. While it’s beautiful, sunlight heats up your home like a greenhouse.
Keep Laundry Cool
Try to wash and dry full loads of laundry. Running smaller loads starts to tap into your power savings. If you can, use cold water and line-dry your clothes. And no, this isn’t Little House on the Prairie.
Use Low Energy Cooking Methods
Using an oven to cook your meals requires a lot of power. Additionally, it increases the temperature in your house, which makes your A/C and oven battle it out for domination. Really, the only one who wins is your utility company. Instead, go outside and use that grill!
Unplug the Energy Vampires
Even when they’re off, electronics suck power like a toddler with a juice box. Use power strips to turn off multiple devices at once—because remembering to unplug everything individually is a task best reserved for overachievers. Phantom power is a real thing. It may not seem like a lot, but think of the dozens of devices that are plugged in and not being used. It all adds up.
Make the Switch to LED
Still using incandescent bulbs? Buddy, they’re basically tiny heaters masquerading as light sources. Swap them out for LEDs—they use 75%-80% less energy and don’t add heat to your home. Plus they can last up to 25 times longer than OG bulbs.
Pool Filters
Decreasing your pool filtration by just 30 minutes each day is a great way you can save energy. You can continue making these slow, incremental reductions as long as your pool water stays clean. If you have a variable-speed pump, you can adjust the time/RPMs to maximize efficiency.
GO OUTSIDE!
Seriously! This radical idea of turning off your electronics and enjoying the summer may seem old-fashioned, but less time spent indoors means less energy used. Go swimming, have a nice picnic, sit under a tree and read a book. Hey, you’re already washing your clothes in cold water and drying them outside. You’re practically a pioneer.
Wrap Up
These common sense energy-saving tips are pretty straight-forward and not particularly revolutionary. However, if there was something here that you may not have considered and, as a result, you save money, then it was worth it. Now turn off your screen and go outside.