Earlier this year I revolted against my power bill. It turns out our consumption for gas and electric was running about $250/month. That's just TOO DARN MUCH for two people.
I placed a call to Puget Sound Energy who, it turns out, has a free program to help folks like us. They sent out an independent contractor who found a number of glaring energy wasters, provided tips on how to eliminate them, and GAVE us two dozen energy-efficient bulbs . (Like I always say, free = good.) I am not a huge fan of the energy-saving bulbs but I am getting used to them. (Did I say" free" yet???) I had no idea we were such energy hogs!
Your power company probably has a similar program to this one. Here are some of the things we learned and implemented:
* Our heater unit was running almost all the time, circulating air (not heat) through the house. The serviceman re-set the timer so that this feature came on for 5 minutes, twice a day. I had no idea!
* Grandma is always hot. Grandpa is always cold. (GEE, that's unusual!) There was always a window open somewhere (freezing Grandpa out in many cases...) The serviceman suggested keeping the windows closed and placing a small fan (aimed at me) in each area where I work/sit/sleep. The energy that went out of those open windows was FAR FAR more than what is used by my little fans -- and as a bonus, Grandpa doesn't get frozen out of his home anymore! Win-Win.
* We turned off the pilot light in the gas fireplace this summer. Haven't turned it back on yet, because with the windows closed, it stays pretty warm in the house without a fire.
* I use my gas barbecue and smoker unit year-round. I have a lovely gas range but the barbecue is more efficient, and a healthier way to cook.
* Doggie doors are one of the biggest energy waters on the planet. We got rid of our door and the effect was immediate! Stand up and let the dog out - better yet take him/her for a walk - the exercise can't hurt, either.
* We have two desktop computers that were left on all the time. Now they are off, as we use the laptops . That was a surprising revelation.
* Go HERE for more tips to save on your home energy bills.
In all honesty, there were a few things they advised that did not work for me - like rinsing my dishes and sinks in cold water. Sorry - I'll pay a few dollars more to feel clean..... YUK
Oh....the end result was around $80/month saved. That's a LOT of "fun coupons!"
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