Spring is a perfect time of year to make your home more energy-efficient. Here are five quick tips that will save both energy and money. To learn about additional ways to cut your energy bill this spring, visit TogetherWeSave.com.
1. Seal the cracks and gaps around your home. Spring may be the right time to put away those storm windows, but it is also a good time to add weather-stripping and caulking around leaky window panes. TogetherWeSave.com shows how easy it is to use a caulking gun to seal up leaks around your house around doors, vents, ductwork and windows. A typical member at Mid-South Synergy can save more than $200 annually.
2. Change filters regularly. Furnace and air conditioner filters need to be changed monthly and this can really help lower monthly energy bills. Dirty filters can restrict air flow and reduce the overall efficiency of your cooling system and make it work even harder on hot summer days.
3. Clean the refrigerator inside and out. Now is a good time to not only throw out the leftover fruit cake from the holidays, but also to check the temperature settings on your refrigerator. Ideally, a refrigerator’s temperature should be between 37 and 40 degrees for maximum operating efficiency.
When it’s time to replace that old refrigerator, be sure to buy an ENERGY STAR® rated appliance and get a rebate on it from Mid-South Synergy. Energy-efficient appliances can save Mid-South Synergy members as much as $100 a year based on calculations from the TogetherWeSave.com website.
4. Think sun block. TogetherWeSave.com demonstrates that by pulling the shades on your windows this spring and summer, you could save about $35 a year. Your local hardware or do-it-yourself stores has lots of inexpensive window coverings. Best of all, by blocking the sun, your house will stay cool and comfortable year-round.
5. Enjoy the spring breezes. Use a clothesline throughout the warmer months to let the sun and breeze dry clothes naturally. This will reduce both energy and water bills, and add a genuine clean scent to your family’s laundry.
You can learn more about ways to lower your monthly energy bill by visiting TogetherWeSave.com.