Eye On Energy: Ways to Conserve

Shut the door. Caulk the windows. And don’t forget to turn off the lights when you leave the room. As a result of this year’s devastating hurricane season, consumers can expect to pay an average of 47 percent more to heat their homes this winter.

If there was ever a time to think before you flick a switch, this is it.

Bright Ideas

The good news is, thanks to the advent of new energy-saving appliances, light bulbs, and insulation; homeowners can trim their energy bills and remain comfortable through the winter months.

Customers Come First

Heating represents the single biggest use of energy in the home, but a well-maintained system can hold down heating costs. Simply cleaning or replacing dirty filters in your system will save you money. Proper insulation in walls, ceilings and floors will pay for itself in fuel cost savings. Storm windows and doors reduce heating costs by as much as 15% by preventing warm air from escaping outdoors. Even clear plastic across windows can minimize heat escape.

See if your home heating oil or gas supplier has a level-billing program so that you can budget costs throughout the year.

Computers: On All Day?

Many people turn on their computers, monitors and printers first thing in the morning and leave them on all day. By not turning your electronics on until you actually need them, you will reap energy savings.

Shut down your computer, monitor, and personal printer or place them in a standby mode when you leave the office for more than two hours.

Are Those Bulbs Energy Efficient?

Lighting accounts for 15 percent of the average home’s electricity use. You can save about $80 a year by switching from incandescent lighting to screw-in florescent or “energy saver” halogen bulbs. Instead of leaving lights on day and night to fool prowlers, use timers to turn lights on and off at pre-determined times.

A Watched Pot Saves Money

Don’t use a conventional oven to heat up last night’s leftovers. Microwave and toaster ovens use 70 to 80 percent less electricity. And avoid temptation — don’t check on the brownies while they are in the oven. Every time you peek, you lower the oven temperature by as much as 25 degrees.

Energy Efficient Appliances Cut Costs

Get the most from appliances you own, and when you are shopping for a new stove, washer or refrigerator, check for yellow Energy Star labels. Remember, the higher the Energy Efficiency Rating, the more efficient the appliance.