Energy efficiency is all about managing the energy you use in a better way. This can lead to a decreased carbon footprint, lower utility bills, and save you money. Here are six tips to help you be more energy efficient.
Use LED bulbs to “use less electricity for the same light output – 85% less electricity when compared to conventional lighting and around 18% less electricity compared to CFL.”
Set the water temp to cold when using the washer. Using cold water is better for the environment, can be gentler on your clothes, and can help save you money. “An estimated 75 to 90 percent of all the energy your washer uses goes to warming up the water, so switching to colder water can lower your gas or electric bill.”
Use your appliances like the dishwasher, washer, and dryer at night. Using appliances during nonpeak hours helps save you money and puts less strain on power systems. It can also help keep your house cooler since you’re not using them during the hottest hours of the day.
“In practical terms, in most parts of the country, these are considered peak hours:
Off-peak hours line up like this:
In summer, from about 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., after the hottest part of the day.
In winter, from about 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., when houses are empty and daytime temps are higher
In virtually all seasons and regions, nighttime hours from 9 p.m. or until 5 a.m. are off-peak.”
Use a programmable thermostat. A programmable thermostat can help you have better control of the temperature in your home. For “every degree Fahrenheit that you raise the temperature during the hot summer or lower during the cold winter can save you up to 2% on your utility bill.“
Turn off lights if you’re not in the room. Why leave the lights on when no one is using the room? This one can be an easy way to save energy and money on your electric bill.
These are just six of the many ways you can be more energy efficient. Why not explore ways you can become more energy efficient? You’ll reduce your carbon footprint, save energy, and save money.