Home Energy Conservation

Things To Do Today

The list of things to do today can be done very easily. Many of these steps require a trip to the local hardware store to pick up some necessary items. The suggested items are:

• A Water Heater Insulating Blanket. These range in price between $5 US - $20 US.
• Compact Fluorescent Light bulbs. This usually average between $4 US - $12 US per bulb depending on the size.
• Furnace Filters. Expect to spend between $5 US - $20 US for filters. The more expensive ones filter out more allergens than less expensive filters.
• Air Conditioner Filters. These are in the same price range as the furnace filters.

Checklist for Today

1. Turn down the temperature on your water heater. By reducing the temperature of your water heater by 10 degrees Fahrenheit, you can save between 3 to 5 percent in energy costs. Most water heaters are set around 135 degrees Fahrenheit however the recommended setting for maximum efficiency is 120 - 115 degrees Fahrenheit.
   
2. Check the R-value of your water heater. The R-value is a measure of thermal resistance in insulation materials. If your water heater has an R-value of at least R-24 you are in good shape. If it is lower, install a water heater insulation blanket. Installing one can reduce standby heat losses by 25%–45%. This will save you around 4%–9% in water heating costs. If you are unsure of the R-value of your water heater, touch the side of it. If it is hot to the touch, the insulation blanket will help.
   
3. Use the energy-saving settings on major appliances. A good example of this is your washing machine. Over 90 percent of the energy use of a washing machine comes from heating the water. As often as possible, wash clothes in warm or cold water. Check your refrigerator and freezer as well. Make sure they are set to an efficient temperature. Set your dishwasher to air dry rather than using heat.
   
4. Check the filters in your furnace and air-conditioner. These filters should last no more than 90 days when used normally, during months of heavy use their lifespan is even shorter. Replace disposable ones and clean reusable filters. Clean filters let the appliance work more effectively and efficiently.
   
5. Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs. Not only do compact fluorescent light bulbs cut energy costs by 75 percent, but if each person in the US replaced just one incandescent light bulb with an energy efficient compact fluorescent light bulb eliminate the equivalent of the emissions created by one million cars.
   
   If you still have some time, check on your major appliances. If it is approaching the time when you will be replacing them, research more energy efficient models that carry the EnergyStar rating.