Category Archive Energy Efficiency

We spent most of our waking hours at home in the living room and can save energy and money on our energy bills.  Even when we are not using the living-room we can save energy.  An average home in the US uses twice as much energy as it did in 1950.

No-cost EE tips

1. In the fall/winter turn down the thermostat while you are sleeping and away from your homes.
2. In In the spring/summer turn up the thermostat while sleeping or away.
3. In the fall/winter use thermal isolation drapes closed at night and open during the day to let the sun in. 
4. Go with a recommendation to wear a sweater.
5. Turn of electronics and lights when not in use.
6. Move obstacles away from vents, ducts and registers.

Low-cost EE tips

1. Replace bulbs with LEDs.
2. Buy and use a programmable thermostat.
3. Use a power strip for your electronic equipment that saves power when turned off.
4. Buy or lease and use an energy star EE cable set box.
5. An 50” Energy Star rated TV could run less than $17 per year to run See https://www.energystar.gov/products/most_efficient for a listing of the most efficient models.

You can even save energy and money on your energy bills while you are sleeping and also get a healthier night’s sleep.  TV’s and electron equipment including computers account for 4% and 2% of an average home’s electricity usage.

No-cost EE tips

1. In the fall/winter turn down the thermostat while you are sleeping and use an extra blanket
2. In the spring/summer turn up the thermostat while sleeping
3. In the fall/winter use thermal isolation drapes closed at night and open during the day to let the sun in. 
4. Use the ceiling fan on low counter-clockwise to move heat down from the ceiling.
5. Close closet doors – less space to heat.

Low-cost EE tips

1. Replace bulbs with LEDs.
2. Buy and use a programmable thermostat.
3. Use a power strip for your electronic equipment that saves power when turned off.