Make Your Home a Green Machine for Energy Awareness Month

Conserving energy at home is great for the planet and great for your budget. With October being Energy Awareness Month, and cooler temperatures coming, it’s a great time to look at ways you can keep your home warm and energy-efficient. (But take note: these tips work all year long!)

Try an insulating blanket for your water heater. Keep the warmth in the tank, where it belongs, to use less energy heating up your morning shower.

Heading out? Check your thermostat. During colder months, you can save up to 10% on your energy bills per year by lowering your thermostat 7°-10° for eight hours a day. It’s even easier with a programmable thermostat.

Let your electronics take a nap. If you’ll be away from your computer or screen for more than a few minutes, put your device in sleep mode to save electricity.

Try the one-click magic of a power strip. Plug electronics, like TVs and phone chargers, into power strips so you can shut them off when you leave and avoid power drain.

Check the seals on your windows and doors. Fill in any gaps with weather stripping, film or caulk so you aren’t losing heat or air conditioning.

Assess your light bulbs. When one burns out, make an upgrade; LED bulbs not only last longer, but they also use up to 90% less energy than halogen or incandescent bulbs!

Wash clothes in cold water. Lighten your water heater’s workload and save energy; do your (full load of) laundry in cooler water.

Do a filter check. Replace or clean the filter on your heating and cooling system regularly – monthly if you have pets or allergies – to keep the system from having to work too hard.

Keep an eye on your bills. If your energy or water usage is going up more than necessary, check your home and routine to see how you can conserve.

Clear out your vents. Giving vents and exhaust fans a once-over keeps dust and debris from blocking them, so air moves through them more efficiently.