Time to give energy efficiency a gold star on your back-to-school checklist! Use these tips to get an “A” as you save money on your energy bill.
Before you hit the books, hit the switch: As the kids leave for the school day, remind them to turn off the lights to reduce energy costs. Save even more by installing lighting controls like smart lighting, dimmers, occupancy sensors and timers.
Teach your thermostat: Since you’ll have fewer people in the house during the day, adjust the temperature a few degrees to save on your energy bill. Better yet, get a smart thermostat and “teach” it to do this for you.
Use a smart power strip: Your kids’ plugged-in electronics draw a small amount of power even when they are switched off. Save money by plugging those items into a smart power strip, then shut them off with one switch.
Load up your laundry: As any parent will tell you, gym class, sports and other after-school activities generate more laundry. Wait until you have a full load before running the washing machine and wash your clothes in cold water to save on water heating costs.
Soak up knowledge … and savings: Learn how to set your water heater thermostat to 120 degrees. It’s an easy do-it-yourself step that will save you money on your water heating costs.
Faucet facts: Install a showerhead that saves on water heating costs by turning itself off when the water gets warm enough, so you know when it’s time to get in the shower.
Don’t test your refrigerator: How many times do your kids open the refrigerator door in a day? An open door makes the compressor work harder. Pick a snack ahead of opening the door to reduce the costs your refrigerator creates on your energy bill.
Stick to a schedule: Contact your trusted HVAC technician to make sure your furnace can pass its yearly exam and will keep running efficiently all winter long to save you money on your energy bill. Back-to-school time is also a good reminder to change your furnace filter.