Spring cleaning isn’t just about cleaning out closets; it’s also a great time to start an EE routine around the home!
Based on March data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the average U.S. household will spend $2,200 on energy this year. Learn how you can save some of that money with the Alliance’s spring cleaning energy efficiency tips.
EE Spring Cleaning Tips: Wash clothes in cold water to save $63 a year.
Clean or change furnace filters regularly. A dirty filter will slow down air flow and make the system work harder to keep you warm. Use low-flow faucets and shower heads to save on water bills. Reduce water heater temperature to 130° F to save energy
and money on heating water; and wrap the water storage tank
in a specially-designed “blanket” to retain the heat. Seal air leaks and properly insulate to save up to 20% on heating and cooling bills, while also increasing home comfort. Use your windows shades – Close blinds on the sunny side in summer and open them in winter. Turn off all lights, appliances and electronics not in use.
A power strip can help turn off multiple items at once. (Sometimes
the simplest things are really effective!) Change to new and improved light bulbs. Reduce energy use from about a third to as much as 80% with today’s increasing number of energy-efficient halogen incandescents, CFLs and LEDs. Install a programmable thermostat to save up to 10% on cooling and heating costs. Look for the Energy Star label, the government’s symbol of energy efficiency, on a wide range of consumer products to save up to 30% on related electricity bills.
