10 Tips That Save Energy
As 2020 comes to an end, many MD families are feeling the pinch. From the Covid MD utility bill concerns in March to the uncertainty in the coming new year, we could use cent we can get. These are just ten simple resolutions that you could make to reduce your energy spending so you’ll be just a little more ready for whatever happens in the coming year.
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Get an Energy Audit
Home energy audits can give you a fuller picture of how efficient your home is. You’ll also see where you can make improvements that may best reduce your high MD electricity bills.
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Switch to Efficient Bulbs
In 2015, the EIA reported that 10% of electricity usage comes from lighting consumption. So switching to more energy-efficient CFL or LED bulbs can help lower your costs. The initial upfront cost pays for itself over time.
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Weatherize Your Home
The Farmer’s Almanac predicts a cold and snowy winter for MD. But you can limit your heating needs by changing your furnace filters regularly. Also check weatherstripping and these other methods to weatherize your home.
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Cooling is a Breeze
With summer consuming 16% of your annual energy consumption, it’s never too early to plan to reduce summer cooling costs. Even with the best electricity rates in your area, hold off on firing up your AC this spring. Open your windows at night, instead and hold off on AC cooling until comfort is an issue.
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Shorter Showers Save Energy and Money
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that heating water for your showers account for 17% of residential water use. That’s why the EPA suggests that you shower better, by using WaterSense labeled showerheads to save up to $70 in electricity per year.
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Go Solar
Residential solar energy is on the rise. Even if your home’s location and design don’t allow for a full solar array, you can benefit from solar-powered devices. This year also sees a record high for wind turbine installation, which could mean cheaper green energy plans. So consider checking out energy companies that offer renewable energy options.
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Landscape to Save Energy
This Department of Energy energy-saving guide recommends planting a deciduous tree with high spreading crowns on the south side of your home. The tree will help shade your roof during the summer and allow for sun light to reach your home during the winter.
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Smart Power Strips Save Energy
Smart power strips help prevent “vampire loads”. When your devices, including TVs and computers, are in sleep mode they still use power. Smart power strips give you control over when to turn them on.
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Ceiling Fans Save Energy
Use ceiling fans to keep individual rooms comfortable until you need home wide cooling. Ceiling fan direction can be reversed to pull warm air from the ceilings down during the winter.
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Save Energy By Washing Full Loads
Fill your clothes and dishwashers with full loads. Energy-efficient dish and clothes washers use a combined estimate of about 250-kilowatt hours (kWh) of energy per year no matter how full they are. So make the best use of them by doing full loads each time.
Save Energy, Save Money
With all the uncertainty in the coming year, one thing you can be sure of is that you’ll save money when you save energy. You can save money easily by following these energy-saving strategies to help lower your energy costs. By following these tips, not only will you see savings in winter but all year round.
You can learn more about saving money and energy by comparing rates, plans, and provider reviews at www.mdenergyratings.com.