As winter approaches and the outdoor temperature drops, energy consumption is on the rise. Homeowners can implement these five tips to help reduce their home’s energy use and costs, yet maintain a warm and comfortable indoor environment, this winter.
The kitchen is one area where consumers have the most options for green products that have the most cost saving opportunity. From ENERGY STAR qualified appliances to green cleaning, homeowners have a virtual appliance wonderland of possibilities.
* Kitchen and Laundry appliances. ENERGY STAR qualified appliances offer the benefits of efficiency, features and convenience. New models of refrigerators that have earned ENERGY STAR qualifications are 40 percent more energy efficient than conventional refrigerators sold in 2001.
* Green cleaning. If scrubbing pots and pans makes you want to throw in the towel, pick up a natural sponge instead. Scotch Brite’s Greener Clean Natural Fiber Scrub Sponges and Scour Pads are new dish scrubbers, made from the agave plant, that are tough enough to remove dried on food, but gentle enough to use on delicate surfaces.
* Sustainable spout. While homeowners are concerned about saving water, the thought of waiting at the kitchen sink to fill a pot or pitcher is not very appealing. Fortunately, the new Lindley Eco-Performance kitchen faucet from Moen is the first in the kitchen category to offer a water-saving faucet. Users can easily switch between three unique water flow settings: 1. eco performance aerated stream 2. eco performance spray and 3. full flow.
* Lighting. During the winter, people tend to use more artificial lighting to make up for the decrease in daylight. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, switching from incandescent light bulbs to more efficient compact florescent bulbs (CFLs) or light emitting diodes (LEDs) can save up to $50 a year in energy costs. Another easy way to reduce energy consumption during the winter holiday season is to use a timer on your festive decorative lights. Your local home improvement stores should carry a variety of inexpensive timer models to choose from.
Water heating
Lowering the thermostat on your water heater by 10 degrees can help save between 3 and 5 percent in energy costs. In addition, keeping your water heater set at 120 degrees will slow corrosion in your water heater and pipes, allowing them to operate at their most efficient. Insulate your water heater tank and any accessible hot water pipes.
Indoor heating
It’s tempting to turn up the heat when the weather cools; however, during the winter months, you can save as much as 3 percent of heating costs for every degree your thermostat is lowered. A professional heating and cooling contractor can recommend and install a programmable thermostat that allows homeowners to create heating schedules for when no one is home ensuring greater energy efficiency and enhanced indoor comfort.
During the winter, energy costs can make a big dent in the family budget; however, there are a few easy things you can do to lower your home’s energy consumption. Find comfort and joy in your home this season by reducing energy costs and efficiently heating your home.
SoBellas Appliance
1-800-617-6235
