Texas has some of the highest energy consumption rates in the nation, thanks to our long, hot summers. To keep your energy costs down, consider some of these money-savings tips from TXU Energy:
Insulation
Make sure that your walls, floors, and attic are properly insulated.
Weather-strip and Caulking
Weather-strip and caulk around windows and doors to prevent drafts.
Thermostat Settings
In the summertime, set the thermostat at 78 F or higher. Set it even higher when you’re away, or purchase a programmable thermostat that could save you as much as 20% in cooling costs.
Thermostat Check
Check the thermostat’s accuracy by placing a thermometer next to the unit and comparing the readings for room temperature. You could be cooling your home more than you think.
SEER
Air conditioning units with a higher SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) will save you money over the life of the unit. TXU recommends a SEER of 13.0 or higher.
Duct Leaks
Leaks develop in air ducts over time. Sealing these leaks can reduce cooling costs by up to 20% with reduction of 10% extremely common.
Manage Attic Vents
Open the upper vents in your attic to let warm air out, and make sure any lower (soffit) vents are not blocked.
Lighting
Use fluorescent lights when possible. A compact fluorescent bulb can save up to $30 per year in electricity costs.
Computers
Enable the sleep more on your computer so it will automatically convert to a low energy mode when not in use.
Refrigeration
Allow at least one inch of space on each side of the refrigerator for good circulation. Poor circulation can increase energy consumption up to 10%.
Dishwasher
Your dishwasher uses the same amount of water regardless of how many dishes are washed. Wash full loads whenever possible.
Filter Check
Check your air filters monthly. Clean or replace if dirty.
Clothes Washer
Your clothes washer uses about the same amount of electricity regardless of how much clothing is being washed. Washing two small loads uses approximately twice as much energy as combining them into one full load.
Dryers
Clean the lint filter after every load. Lint on the filter reduces air flow and makes the dryer work harder, increasing the time it takes to dry clothes.
Water Heater Temperature
Lower the temperature of your water heater. A 10 F reduction in temperature saves about 13% of your water heating costs. For an average family this amounts to savings up to $30 to $60 per year on an electric water heater.
Source: www.txu.com/Cultures/en-US/ENERGYTIPS
{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
Thank you for your article. These are really smart and useful tips that we all can use. Some of them are so simple and obvious that it might even escape us. There would be a great impact in our communities if each of us were to apply at least half of these tips. As a matter of fact, if we all become "fuel-efficient", the impact would be astronomical; it would grow in such a way that the overall savings could even reach the state level and create an energy revolution. If we could only be so efficient… Let us all work together to make this happen! That way we could do our contribution not only for the present but also for our children's and grandchildren’s future. May you have a pleasant day.