With energy costs spiraling out of control, we're becoming more conscious of our household energy use. Those of us in Miami are especially vulnerable to the rising costs of running our air conditioners year-round. These money-saving tips will help you conserve our resources as well as protect your pocketbook. These ideas come courtesy of the U.S. Department of Energy.
1. Get a programmable thermostat
Installing a programmable thermostat can help you regulate your energy costs by automatically reducing energy usage while you're sleeping or out of the house. The savings achieved by installing one of these handy devices can surpass the cost of installation in less than a month!2. Use compact fluorescent light bulbs.
These energy-saving bulbs use only a fraction of the electricity of their incandescant counterparts.3. Air dry your dishes.
The heated drying cycle of your dishwasher uses a tremendous amount of power. Air drying your dishes can help you realize substantial savings. Don't give up the dishwasher altogether, however. Studies have shown that washing dishes in the sink requires more energy (from heating the water) than using an energy-efficent dishwasher.4. Turn off your computer when you're not using it.
It's certainly tempting to leave your computer on all the time. However, these power hogs can quickly drain your electric bill. Turn them off when you're not using them.5. Purchase energy efficient appliances.
Pay attention to the energy efficiency ratings when you're buying new appliances. It's not worth saving $50 on an appliance only to find that it will cost you $250 more in electricity over the course of a year!6. Take a shower instead of a bath.
Showers use MUCH less water than a bath (provided you keep it to a reasonable length!) Less water means less energy to heat the water -- unless you enjoy cold showers, that is!7. Set your hot water heater to a temperature of 120 degrees Farenheit.
Any warmer than that and you're just going to burn yourself, anyway!8. Wash only full loads of dishes and clothes.
This one's a no-brainer. It takes basically the same amount of energy to wash and dry a full load as it does a partial load. Let your laundry accumulate before running the washer and dryer!
