Tips to Save Energy and $$ this Winter
It's November and soon folks in Silicon Valley will be turning on the furnace-and looking for ways to cut down on energy costs.
Kristin's provided excellent tips here for saving energy and money this winter.
If you have an older water heater, be sure to add a special insulation blanket to reduce your energy costs. This is especially important if the water heater is in the garage or an outdoor closet.
Tips to Save Energy and $$ this Winter
Winter has come early so it is a good time to think about saving energy in your home which in turn will save you money and this is something we all want to do.
Water Heaters:
If your water heater is old, it might be worth it to buy a new one that is more efficient and has a built in water heater blanket. Make sure to turn your temperature down to 120 degrees and if it is in a cold, drafty room, put a water heater blanket on to keep the temperature hot.
Programmable Thermostats:
Heating and cooling your home uses more energy and costs you more than any other area in your home. This takes up almost half your entire utility bill so by installing a programmable thermostat to help you adjust your home's temperature when you are there or during the hot/cold times of the year.
LED Light Bulbs:
Replacing your traditional incandescent light bulbs with LED bulbs will cut your energy bills 1/3 to 1/2 and the bulbs can last up to 25 years.
Seal Leaks:
Window Coverings: Do you have sheer curtains or no window coverings at all to bring in the sunshine? This might be perfect if your weather is 60-70 degrees 24 hours a day but the sunshine will overheat your home and the cold temperatures will chill your home and make your HVAC run longer.
Turn off Unused Appliances:
Appliances and electronics that are plugged in and rarely used have become known as the phantom load in your home. This is a big drain on your electric bill so by plugging them into a power strip, it makes it easy to turn the strip on and off as needed. This will be a big saver to your utility bill.
Get Rid of the 2nd Refrigerator in the Garage:
How many have a second refrigerator in your garage? And typically it is your old one after you bought a new 'Energy Star Model' but the old one is not! This is the major thing the electric companies tell you to do ; shut down your second refrigerator and see a great reduction on your bill.
Get a Home Air Audit:
If you are interested in finding leaks in your home, I strongly suggest a 'Home Energy Assessment'. Find out where you are losing air and get suggestions to seal the leaks. Common places are the attic, doors, windows, light switch receptacles, and wall boards. I had this done and it was very enlightening and I have since made my home more efficient.
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Need a Great Realtor in San Bernardino & Riverside? Google me here...Kristin Hamilton 909.557.6966.
Kristin Hamilton CDPE, SFR, CHS, BPOR, BA , GREEN
Keller Williams Realty BRE-01492138
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