With rising prices on everything it is more important now than ever to save money where you can. According to Consumer Energy “The average household spends more than $2,000 a year on energy bills, with nearly half of that going to heating and cooling.’
Here are some tips to help save energy:
UNPLUG
When not using electronic appliances, unplug them. Things like coffee makers, computer and phone chargers can increase energy costs up to 10%. Use power strips when possible so you can just shut off the power strip instead of unplugging each individual item.
MAINTAIN YOUR APPLIANCES
When is the last time you had a service check on your refrigerator or other household appliances? Clogged coils and dust can make your appliances work extra hard to do its job, increasing the energy it uses.
USE LED BULBS
Swap out those old bulbs for LED ones. LED bulbs only use about a quarter of traditional incandescent bulbs, and they last longer.
WASH COLD
When doing laundry, wash your clothes in cold water. It not only saves energy but it will help keep the colors from fading.
GET THE RIGHT WINDOW TREATMENTS
According to Energy.gov, “Heat gain and heat loss through windows are responsible for 25%–30% of residential heating and cooling energy use.” If you plan on keeping your home for a long period of time, make sure you have window treatments that are energy efficient.
Brands like Hunter Douglas have the most insulating shades on the market. According to Hunter Douglas “Window treatments help with a home’s energy efficiency by providing insulation, controlling solar heat gain, and by using natural light to reduce the use of electric light (called daylighting), which saves energy.” Upgraded window treatments are not only energy efficient but they can increase the value of your home. The upfront investment will pay off in the long run.
All these energy tips are not only useful during the hot Las Vegas summer months, but it will help you save energy year-round.
