The economy may be improving, but most of us still do not have money to burn. As we look for ways to save money, one area that catches our attention is our electric bill. You have heard that it is the little things that count. When it comes to electricity, they add up. Here are a few little things to do to help you save electricity and money:
- Change the filters on your air conditioning unit. Regular maintenance will help your unit run more efficiently and save cash.
- Install a programmable thermostat. Set it to higher temperatures when you are away from home during the summer and lower in winter. A reduction of 10 degrees can equate to a reduction of 10 percent on your bill.
- Make occupied rooms more comfortable by using fans. They do not reduce temperatures, but air circulating on your skin makes you feel cooler, reducing the need for air conditioning. Turn fans off when you leave the room.
- Take advantage of cooler temperatures outdoors. Open doors and windows to cool the house at night, turning the cooling system off altogether.
- Seal air leaks. Drafts around doors and windows give cool air an escape route that costs you money. Use weather stripping where appropriate and caulking to fill holes and cracks.
- Give the oven a rest. Microwaves, toaster ovens and counter-top grills let you cook your food without excessive heat in the kitchen. Grill outdoors to save electricity, too.
- Install a timer to turn your electric water heater off for six to eight hour periods when no one will be using it, then on again in time to heat water for showers.
- Replace older appliances with new ones with recommendations from the federal Energy Star program. You will save electricity by up to 35 percent.
An HVAC specialist can assist you with several of these items, from annual maintenance to installing a new thermostat. The experts at Roth Heating and Cooling will give you a free in-home consultation to discuss your needs and help you save electricity. We have been serving the Portland area since 1976.
