20 Ways to Cut Energy Bills

Here is some useful information during this frigid winter of ours.........

20 Ways to Cut Energy Bills

1. Don’t overstock the fridge; this blocks the air from flowing and uses more energy.
2. Use a toaster oven for small meals or reheating.
3. Use a slow cooker rather than the oven.

4. Use glass or ceramic pans, they hold heat better and allow you to cook at a lower temperature (25 degrees lower)and for the same amount of time.

5. For Christmas lights, use LED lights.
6. Buying a new TV? Buy only EnergyStar rated.
7. Dry clothes on an indoor drying rack instead of using the dryer for everything.
8. Refrain from using the fireplace when its 20 degrees or below, most of the heat escapes out the chimney.
9. In a wood burning fireplace, use logs that are 4-6 inches in diameter; they are more efficient and produce more heat.
10. For an efficient furnace, change your furnace filter monthly.
11. Replace your furnace motor with a variable speed motor; this allows your furnace to operate on a lower fan speed and use less energy.
12. Buy a programmable thermostat; program it to run when you need it and less when you are not at home or at night.
13. Plant deciduous tress around your home; they shade in the summer and allow sun during the winter when they have lost their leaves.
14. Install an energy efficient pet door; these have a better seal and prevent heat loss.
15. Lubricate door locks and hinges to allow them to close better and get a better seal.
16. Check your recessed light cans for leakage and replace with sealed cans.
17. If you are considering moving; find a place with good southern exposure and take advantage of passive solar for heating during the winter time.
18. Reverse your ceiling fan rotation to push the heat down into your living space.
19. Unplug appliances and others items not in use. If you leave things plugged in they still use energy even in the off position.
20. Limit use of bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans; use them only when necessary as they are a major source of heat loss.