Save Energy and Keep the Change
APRIL 7, 2009
We're looking for ways to banish waste and use resources wisely. Small changes you can make at home can add up to big savings, both on your utility bills and environmental impact.
Be an Energy Star
Buy major appliances with the "Energy Star" sticker. The U.S. Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency sets performance-based standards for energy savings, and appliances that meet or exceed these standards. Energy Star partners sometimes offer rebates on qualified products. And you can use their home checklist to figure out where you can save on your energy bills.
Don't give up comfort
Get all-season efficient by closing vents you're not using and using caulk and weather-stripping around windows and doors to stop leaks. Ask your building management about storm windows, which can go a long way toward keeping heat inside in winter, and change the filter in your A/C regularly. Use a digital thermostat. You can program it accordingly so you're comfortable when you're at home and saving energy and cash—up to 2/3 of your heating use—when you're not.
More ways to save
Get a home energy audit every couple of years to find ways to cut costs. Some power companies run energy-saving programs that involve shutting down electric appliances for a bit during peak hours. You may hardly notice the difference—except on your bill.
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