1. Perform an Energy Audit
Whether you are a homeowner or a business owner, energy audits are extremely helpful and are your first line of defense when trying to save energy. You may be wondering, what exactly is a home energy audit?
During a home energy audit, a professional will come out and use special tools and infrared technology to locate air leaks. With this information, a technician can give a comprehensive report of areas in your home that need upgrading, sealed, and so on. This type of service is much more thorough than what a homeowner can do upon visual inspection.
2. Control How Much Your Water Is Heated
Heating water accounts for a significant amount of your energy bill, approximately 14-18 percent of your utility bill. Set your water heater no higher than 120 degrees and if your hot water is more than five years old, wrap a water heater jacket around it. Older water heaters are not as insulated as newer heaters so the jacket will help prevent heat loss.
Another option is to install low-flow showerheads or temperature sensitive shower valves. All of your clothes do not or should not be washed in warm or hot water, try opting out for cold water when possible.
3. Use A Power Strip and Unplug Equipment Not In Use
Electronic equipment is costing people upwards of a $100 a year for no reason at all. One hundred dollars a year may not sound like a lot but honestly, that can pay for a family staycation or go into a college fund. Using a power strip for equipment that is in close proximity will allow you to turn all of it off with one switch when it’s not in use.
Unplug all your chargers if you are not using them, they drain energy more than you would think. All those kitchen appliances on the counter, unplug them, just because you are not using them doesn’t mean they don’t pull a charge.
4. Energy Saving Lighting and Energy Star Appliances
Lighting accounts for 10 percent of your power bill and with the plethora of choices out there, you can find a solution to fit your budget. You have a variety to choose from including energy star bulbs and compact fluorescent bulbs. LED bulbs use 70-80 percent less power than your traditional lightbulb, making them the best choice.
Energy Star appliances have been around for some time now so the prices have reduced since their original release. If you are in the market for a new washer and dryer or dishwasher, Energy Star is the way to go. Depending on which appliance we’re talking about, they can save between 10 and 40 percent in energy use.
5. Use Natural Lighting To Your Advantage
This is pretty basic, but really sound sage advice that you should follow. In the winter use the sun to your advantage, open your blinds and allow the sun to warm your home. In the summer close your blinds to keep the house cooler.
Call Our Team Today
If you would like an energy audit or would like to find out how we can help you save energy in your Colorado home, E3 Power is ready to assist. Give our team a call today!
