It may be surprising how easy and affordable it can be to reduce your home's energy use. Here are 6 simple things you can do to lower energy costs.
According to the California Energy Commision, heating water to wash clothes accounts for up to 90% of the costs. Unless you have oily stains, washing in cold will clean clothes and potentially save you $40 - $180 a year.
Potential savings: $40 - $180 a year
Upfront costs: $0
Payback period: Immediate
Taking advantage of winter sunlight can help with heating costs. Open south and west-facing blinds during the day to provide natural lighting and capture free heat.
Potential savings: Up to $10 a year
Upfront costs: $0
Payback period: Immediate
Small air gaps around electrical outlets and light switches leak more air than you may realize. Stop these air leaks with low-cost, easy-to-install foam insulating gaskets.
Potential savings: $10 a year
Upfront costs: Less than $1 an outlet or light switch
Payback period: 6 months or less
Install a low-flow showerhead to conserve water and reduce water-heating costs. For the most savings, look for high-performance models with flow rates of 1.5 gallons of water per minute.
Potential savings: Up to $25 a year
Upfront costs: $10 or more
Payback period: Less than 6 months
Halogen incandescent bulbs, compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) and LEDs use 25% to 80% less energy, and last three to 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. Start by replacing your home's five most used lights with advanced LEDs and save up to $75 a year.
Potential savings: Up to $15 over a bulb's life
Upfront costs: $5 - $20 for LEDs
Payback period: Less than a year
Installing a programmable or smart thermostat helps reduce energy waste by letting you program your thermostat according to your schedule and season. In colder months, set your thermostat at 68° and 78° in warmer months (health permitting).
Potential savings: Up to 10% a year
Upfront costs: $25 or more
Payback period: 6 months to 2 years
Take a free Home Energy Checkup to find where your home uses the most energy and receive personalized ways to save.