Seasonal Energy-Saving Tips

Whether you own a home or rent, you can reduce your energy use by following these seasonal energy-saving tips.

Summer

• Central and room air-conditioning can be your biggest electricity users in the summer.

  • Set your thermostat at 78°F or higher, if health permits.

  • Turn off or set your air conditioner to 85°F when no one is home.

  • Use a programmable or smart thermostat for central air and save between 20 to 60 cents per hour.

• Other energy-saving tips include: 

  • Use shades and drapes to block out direct sun during the day.

  • Cook outside or with a microwave oven instead of a stove. 

  • Use a whole house fan, room fans or ceiling fans instead of air-conditioning.

  • Replace most frequently used incandescent bulbs and fixtures with ENERGY STAR® certified bulb to save two-thirds of lighting costs.

  • Unplug second refrigerator if not needed. 

  • Turn off appliances including computers and televisions when not in use.

  • Use exhaust fans to remove moisture from showering and cooking.

  • Reduce humidity by reducing sources of moisture, running exhaust fans after showering and cooking and using an ENERGY STAR® rated dehumidifier.

Winter

The furnace or boiler is the largest energy user in most homes.

• ​If health permits, keep thermostat at 68°F or below

  • Lower thermostat at night and when you're gone (55°F lowest setting).

  • Check the furnace filter once a month during the heating season. Change or clean when dirty.

  • Have a professional tune-up of your heating system every other year.

  • Replace a lower efficiency furnace with one of at least 90% efficiency.

• Other energy-saving tips include: 

  • Sealing around sewer vent pipe in basement and attic to keep in heated air.

  • Closing fireplace damper after fire is out to stop drafts.

  • Letting the sun in during the day to reduce heating costs.

  • Closing drapes and shades at night to improve comfort.

Spring

• Seal around the window air conditioning units so cool air cannot escape.

• Hose off the outdoor central air condensing unit to remove dirt and leaves. Choose a qualified contractor to service for your central air every two years. 

• Check your furnace filter every month and replace when dirty.

• Vacuum dust and dirt from the coils and fan of your dehumidifier.

• Other energy-saving tips include: 

  • Replace your gas-powered lawn mower with a nonpolluting manual or electric mower.

  • Put up a clothesline for drying laundry outside to avoid heating the house with your clothes dryer.

  • Plant a deciduous shade tree to the south or west of your home to keep it cooler.

  • Check gutters and downspouts to make sure they drain away from the house. This reduces moisture around your home’s foundation.