Editor’s Note: This is a guest post by Nadia Jones
SUMMER is right around the corner, and for those who live relatively close to the equator, it’s hard to say which is worse, the heat or the energy bill. Luckily, there are countless energy-saving tips, many of them free or of very low cost, that can all add up to create significant savings in your electricity bill. Not to mention, just about all of this tips will help save the environment as well.
Free Tips
Use your microwave
Believe it or not, microwaves are the most energy efficient cooking appliances around. They use two thirds less energy than an electric stove.
Cook outsideGrilling outside not only saves on energy, but it also doesn’t heat up the house like a stove or oven would. Plus summer is the perfect time to start grilling!
Use your dishwasher
Unless you have a very strict, regimented dish cleaning process in your sink aimed at saving water, a dishwasher will use less water. Of course, it will take some energy to run the dishwasher cycle, but remember that the dishes can air-dry once they’re done. Just let them dry off in the dishwasher racks. Only run your dishwasher when it is full.
Fill your fridge
Keeping your fridge filled will prevent it from warming up too fast when the door is open because there are more items retaining their cold temperature and less space for warm air to move in. As a result, your fridge won’t have to use as much energy to stay cool.
Use fans
Rather than turning your thermostat down to 72 degrees, try to keep it closer to 76-78 degrees. Then just use ceiling fans and plug-in fans to keep rooms cool with air movement. Of course, take health considerations into account; some people simply need a cool thermostat.
Hang your clothes to dry
Clothes dryers take a lot of energy to run. If weather permits and you have the space for it, hang your clothes to dry on a clothes line. You can even hang clothes near windows if you don’t have space to hang outside.
Don’t waste energy
Turn off appliances and lights when not in use. Also, be sure to unplug electronic devices and charges when they aren’t running; even when turned off, some of these devices still use electricity if still plugged in.
Keep blinds or shades closed
Heat from the sun can really heat up a home. Remember that lights from in your home will also heat your home as well.
Cheap Tips
Replace air conditioner filters
Dirty filters restrict airflow, causing the air conditioning system to run longer to cool a home. For maximum circulation, replace filters monthly although any frequency of replacement will help.
Plug leaks
Weather-strip, seal, and caulk doors and windows that leak air from outside and install foam gaskets behind outlet covers. Sealing your ducts, while it is a huge work-intensive task, will have a huge affect on your energy bill.
Insulate your attic
If your current insulation level is R-19 or less, try insulating your attic with at least R-30.
Author Bio: This is a guest post by Nadia Jones who blogs at top online college about education, college, student, teacher, money saving, movie related topics. You can reach her at nadia.jones5@gmail.com
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