When you think about saving energy, do not imagine your efforts have to be high-tech or burdensome. Many of the moves you can make to cut down on energy use and utility bills are actually very simple, small, and effortless. Here are some of the simplest to help you save money and be environmentally friendly this winter.
Energy Savings Tips for Winter and Beyond
A lot of the steps you can take are effective throughout the year, including the way you approach your laundry routine. For instance, do you clean out the lint catcher after every load? An empty lint tray makes your machine more efficient and prevents overheating, so get rid of the build-up frequently.
Unless you are washing very dirty items such as heavily soiled towels, run all of your washing through a cold cycle. This will save money, but also protect clothing. Fabrics wear down more slowly when washed in cold water than when they are subjected to high temperatures. Moreover, cold water is more effective for killing germs than warm water. Consider using the dryer for less time and choosing a cycle that turns off automatically when a sensor detects that moisture has been taken care of.
When it comes to warming-up your food, turning on the oven to heat small items or keep them warm as you wait for kids and spouses to get home from work is a drain on electricity. Buy a microwave and re-heat small amounts of food at one time, using very little electricity each time.
Wash your dishes in the dishwasher as usual, but use a booster heater to keep your general water temperature low. This way you are not constantly maintaining the tank at a high temperature.
When you shower, try not to get lost in thought. As enjoyable as the feel of hot water is, force yourself to shut off the water a little earlier and save money.
More Possibilities
There are always more ideas for cutting energy costs, including lowering your thermostat by just a degree or two and wearing more clothing. If you liked these ideas, check back with us often for more HVAC and energy savings tips in the future.
