Tips for Saving Electricity

Remove Debris Around Air Conditioner

Trim back foliage at least two feet around the air conditioner, and remove debris from nearby the unit. This will ensure that airflow to the unit is not blocked.

Replace Filter

While your air conditioner is in use, replace your filter each month.

Use Ceiling Fan

Use ceiling fans to make use of the wind chill effect while you are home. Set them to spin counterclockwise during warmer months so that they push air down and make you feel cooler.

Use Curtains & Blinds

Use curtains and blinds to keep sunlight out on hot days.

Programmable Thermostat

Set your thermostat as high as is comfortable when you are home. The smaller the difference between the thermostat and the outside temperature, the less energy used. Use a programmable thermostat to adjust your home’s temperature based on your schedule. It can automatically keep your home cooler while you are there and warmer when you are away.

Check for Gaps in Windows & Doors

Check for cracks and gaps around windows and doors and seal them with caulk and weather stripping.

Use Curtains to Your Advantage

Open curtains to the sun to help warm a room with radiant energy.  Close them at night and on gloomy days to keep heat in.

Replace Filter

Replace your furnace filter monthly to save energy and improve heat circulation.

Water Heater Maintenance

Set the water heater thermostat to 120 degrees and if it is an older unit, install an inexpensive insulating blanket to prevent heat loss.

Unused Rooms

Doors and vents of unused rooms can also be closed if there is a cold air return in the room; otherwise, closing them off will put inefficient stress on your air handling system.

Close Damper

If you have a wood burning fireplace, be sure to close the damper when it is not in use. This prevents heat from escaping and cold from entering through your chimney.

Programmable Thermostat

Lower the temperature setting when you leave the home and at night when you go to sleep. A programmable thermostat can automatically make these adjustments for you. 

Check for Gaps in Windows & Doors

Weather stripping is relatively easy and available at your local home improvement store. Stop drafts from coming in and heat from leaking out of your home through drafty doors and windows.

Use caulk to seal gaps in the walls of your home or apartment. Wherever different building materials meet, or wiring comes out of a wall, there are gaps that may contribute to the loss of heat in your home.

If you have older or leaky windows, consider temporary fixes, such as plastic film kits that create the effect of an interior storm window.