Winter is coming and many of us have turned on the heat to keep our houses warm. As our utility bills get bigger, this is a great time to find some small ways to conserve. Try these tips:
- Clean the dryer lint filter with every load.
- Close curtains at night, and open them when sunlight is coming in those windows.
- Consider purchasing insulated draperies, or hang quilts or blankets over drafty windows and doors.
- Replace standard light bulbs with compact flourescents.
- Install a programmable thermostat.
- Check with your utility company to see if they have any energy saving programs. Some offerings might include free or low-cost energy audits, rebates on energy efficient appliances, or installation of energy savings devices.
- Look into budget billing. Using this program, you will pay the same or nearly the same amount for your utilities all year long. Your bill will be a bit higher in the spring and fall but will be lower in the summer and winter.
- Invest in warm slippers, heavy bedcovers and warm sweaters. A fleece jacket will keep you warm even with the thermostat turned down.
- Vacuum the coils on your refrigerator.
- Turn off the lights when you leave the room, or when the sun is providing enough light for your activities.
These tips aren't exciting, nor are they difficult, but they will help lower your utility bills. Give them a try!
