Tips for Saving Enery All Year
There are a number of different ways, in addition to insulating your home, to save energy and help ensure that your home is energy efficient. Year-round you should do the following to maximize energy efficiency.
- Weatherize. Check for drafts around windows and doors with a piece of tissue paper attached to a string. If the paper moves, air is leaking in or out. Adding the proper amount of weatherstripping and caulking can increase energy savings by up to 10%.
- Close off unoccupied rooms.
- Insulate hot water heater, pipes and ducts.
- Install water-saver shower heads or flow restrictors. These inexpensive devices will pay for themselves in a few months.
- Install energy-efficient doors and windows which can help reduce fuel costs up to 15%.
- Choose energy-efficient kitchen appliances. They may cost more initially, but can save you money by reducing your energy use.