Now that summer is in full swing, we’re all looking for ways to lower our energy use.
By making a few low-cost energy-efficient purchases, you could see the savings reflected on your monthly energy bill. Here are a few of our favorite low-cost, but high-reward energy-savings tips:
Switch out your light bulbs.
Is your home filled with incandescent light bulbs? Now is a good time to switch them out with energy-efficient LED bulbs. While incandescent bulbs are a little cheaper initially, LEDs have a longer lifespan and cost less to use.
Use caulk to seal leaks.
If you have small air gaps around your doors and windows, you’re letting warm outside air inside and making your HVAC run longer to keep your home comfortable which uses more energy. Take a quick trip to your local hardware store for a caulk gun and seal up those gaps to save on energy use.
Replace air filters.
When was the last time you changed out the air filters around your home? We recommend changing your filters monthly. A clean filter allows all air from your air conditioner to cool your home instead of being blocked by a dirty filter which makes your unit use more electricity. As a bonus, changing out your filters will result in cleaner air flowing through your home.
Install a low-flow showerhead.
Make your showers more efficient by installing a water-saving showerhead. There are a number of models available so you’re sure to find the perfect option that’s both powerful and energy efficient. Saving hot water reduces the energy needed to heat up the water in the tank.
Install a programmable or smart thermostat.
This is the most expensive tip on this list, but it can make a significant impact on your energy bill. With a programmable thermostat, you can set schedules for your heating and cooling system to adjust automatically. You can also let your smart thermostat learn your cooling habits and make adjustments as necessary for maximum efficiency. Plus, we offer a $50 sign-up rebate when you join our smart thermostat savings program with your Nest or Ecobee smart thermostat! Learn more at pemc.coop/thermostat.