New Year’s Energy Saving Resolution

Another year is drawing to a close, which means it’s time for New Year’s resolutions. But this year let’s think more about our energy bills rather than our beach body dreams. Of course, resolving to find cheap electricity rates can cut your bills. But in the meantime, you can cut back on energy spending with these 7 New Year’s Energy Resolution Tips.
Check Heating And Cooling Equipment
About 30% of electricity is used on heating and cooling alone. Heating and cooling technology improves in efficiency every year. So, if your system is 10-15 years old or more, then it’s time to replace it. In many cases, you can cut your heating and cooling costs by up to 35%.
Control Thermostat To Save Energy
Your heating and cooling uses less electricity if you turn back your thermostat just a few degrees. You don’t even have to do it all day. In fact, you could save up to 10% a year if you turn it back 7-10 degrees for 8 hours a day, like when you’re sleeping or at work. It can even automate this with a programmable thermostat.
Save Energy With Efficient Appliances
Older appliances simply waste more electricity than you need to do the same job. So make a resolution to replace your common appliances with ENERGY STAR certified ones. For example, an ENERGY STAR refrigerator can save you up to $220 a year. And ENERGY STAR certified coolers are 10-30% more efficient than ones that only meet the federal minimum standard.
Draperies and Curtains
Did you know that 30% of heat loss and gain is caused by your windows? Which means colder winters and hotter summers and more electricity spent on staying comfortable. But efficient window coverings can help keep heat in during the winter and out during the summer.
Prevent Energy Vampire Loads
Make it a habit to unplug your unused devices. Phone chargers, TVs, and other remote controlled devices still drain power when turned them off because they’re in standby mode. Alternatively, you could also invest in smart plugs that will automatically cut off power flow when it’s not needed.
Request Home Energy Assessment
Even the most efficient air systems may be costing you money. Because of outside drafts getting into in your home or ducts leaking heated or cooled air, your HVAC system must run longer than should. Seal your home and your duct work! And also request a home energy assessment for the complete picture. Both Pepco and BGE offer free home assessments if you call or check their websites.
Consider Water Heating Savings
Water heating makes up about 18% of energy use for most homes. So you can save lots of money by reducing your home hot water use. You might also consider replacing faucets and showerheads with energy efficient ones that waste less water and power.
Best New Year’s Energy Resolutions
It’s not always easy to save money, especially on electricity in Maryland. But there are easy steps you can take that can add up to huge annual savings. So treat yourself to more money in 2023 by trying out these tips.
You can keep up with the news that affects your bills at https://www.mdenergyratings.com. You can also shop for an MD energy company that offers competitive rates, helping you save big on your utility bill.