Top 10 Low Cost Steps to Lower Your Energy Bill This Winter

 The colder weather is back and lower winter temperatures mean higher utility bills for many Tennessee Valley residents. And with energy costs higher than normal this year, many families are finding their energy budgets strained. Fortunately, there are some short-term energy efficiency measures that can be implemented quickly to help lower home energy costs. Last week we looked at the “Top 10 NO COST” steps that you can take to lower your bills this winter, this week we look at the “Top 10 LOW COST” steps.

1. Caulk and weatherstrip around windows and doors to stop air leaks. Seal any gaps in floors and walls around pipes and electrical wiring.
2. Change filters monthly. Install a “filter whistle” to let you know when to change them.
3. Replace incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescents.
4. Repair air leaks and seal and insulate heating system ductwork.
5. Add insulation to your attic, crawl space and any accessible exterior walls. Add pipe insulation to the first 5 feet of water pipe coming from your water heater. Install light switch and electrical outlet seals on exterior walls.
6. Install an ENERGY STAR programmable thermostat appropriate for your type of heating system and set it at 68 degrees F. for heating.
7. Look for the ENERGY STAR label when replacing large or small appliances.
8. Wrap your water heater with insulation or install an insulating blanket.
9. Install aerating, low-flow faucets and showerheads & repair leaky faucets.
10. Use power strips for home electronics, and turn off power strips when equipment is not in use. TV’s and DVD players, etc. still use power when the switch is off.

For more information on how to conserve energy in your home or to complete a free home energy survey, click here or call your local SVEC office for more details.

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