#Energy Savings Checkup

One way to get some extra spending money in your bank account is to cut household energy costs.  Fortunately, there are a number of different ways you can accomplish your goal of saving money on home energy expenses. After all, you'd rather keep your hard-earned money than spend it on something you don't need!

Turn off All Lights and Appliances When Not in 

While this home energy saving technique may seem obvious, it is certainly worth a reminder. It can be easy to forget to shut off the lights upstairs or turn off the television before rushing out the door.  Make it a priority to turn off all lights and appliances when they are not in use, and especially before you leave your home for any period of time.  The exact amount of money saved will vary from house to house, depending on the number and type of electronics.

Install a Programmable Thermostat in Your Home

One of the benefits of modern technology is that it allows us to do all kinds of things simply through the use of our phones. Programmable thermostats can be huge money savers.  They work by allowing you to program the thermostat to turn on and off at various temperatures throughout the day and night.  For example, if you are at work all day, you can program your device to shut off the air conditioning when you are out of the house and turn back on shortly before you arrive home so that you still get the benefit of an air-conditioned home.  Some models have apps available on your phone for you to download and control your thermostat from afar, while others have the programming capability in the device itself.  You may be able to save approximately $180 a year by programming your thermostat!

Change the Air Filter

Another way to save money on the energy use is to change your HVAC's system's air filter on a regular basis.  It is generally recommended to change your air filter at least once every three months.  However, keep in mind that this is the bare minimum.  You'll want to check the air filter at least once a month just to make sure it does not need to be changed ahead of schedule.  Some months will produce particularly dirty air filters due to the usage, so take extra care to check the filters during the summer and winter months.

Wash Clothes in Cold Water

A simple change you can easily make to conserve energy is to use cold water in your washing machine.  When you use warm water to wash your clothes, the water must be heated, which requires the use of energy.  If you make the switch to cold water, you avoid this energy usage.  By taking this step, you can save approximately $60 a year.

Just by following these tips, you have the potential to save hundreds a year by conserving energy.  Be sure to take a look at your energy usage and follow these simple tips to be on your way to easy savings!