Tips for your home

Tips to Save Energy in Your Home

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Low Cost Energy Saving Tips

Lower the thermostat in the winter by a degree a month - You and your family will not even notice the change, but your bill will reflect it
Raise the thermostat in the summer by a degree a month (with A/C only) - Humans are very adaptable to change. Changing a little at a time will not even be noticed.
Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs - Did you know that over 10% of electricity in your home goes into lighting? According to the U.S. Department of Energy; a CFB is four times more efficient than a regular bulb (www1.eere.gov/consumer/tips/lighting.html). The latest technologies offer nearly the same type of light too.
Install a water heater blanket - For around $30 you can buy insulation blanket for your water heater, and nearly double the amount of R-Value (resistance to heat loss) of your tank.
Install outlet seals on all outer wall outlets
Replace faucet and shower heads with aerating low flow ones - Less water used, less water to heat.
Make sure to keep your heating and air-conditioning maintained regularly
Clean the coils behind or under your refrigerator at least once a year
Make sure you and your family turn off lights and appliances when not in use*

*Set up a competition with your family members and/or your neighbors to see who can lower the bill more each month - Loser buys dinner!

Medium Cost Energy Saving Tips

High Cost Energy Saving Tips

Replace heating and air-conditioning with Energy Star rated system
Geo Thermal heating and air-conditioning system
Replace water heater with an "on-demand" water system
Upgrade or replace old insulation with new - Many older houses used older style insulation, or the insulation has become compacted by dust and moisture, which can reduce its insulating properties. The attic is the most important and should have an R36 rated insulation.

Energy supplemental systems

Solar panel - Solar can be expensive, however it is possible to buy used, lease, or even place panels to power out buildings such as sheds or work shops.
Windmill - Another rather expensive form of power generation, but they may be less than you think. A survey of wind speed must be taken of your area, as well as checking with local ordinances.
Hydroelectric - That's right! You do not need to build Hoover Dam, but you can put a back yard stream to work for you.