If you’re currently pinching your pennies to save up for that summer getaway, then you may want to take a look at you energy expenditure, and what it’s costing you. Below are a handful of ways you can save energy, and cash.
Replace regular bulbs with CFLs or LEDs. Lighting can be up to 20 percent of your home's energy use. Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) or LEDs provide the same amount of light as incandescent bulbs using less energy. CFLs use up to 75 percent less energy than incandescent bulbs, can last up to 10 times longer and can save you up to $500 a year.
Power down—use a power strip. Save up to $300 a year by using smart strips and unplugging items not in use. Many appliances are still drawing power, even when switched off. Using power strips or unplugging things like DVRs, sound systems, game consoles and flat screen TVs can save on your bill.
Adjust your thermostat. Set your thermostat to 78 F for summer AC and 68 F for winter heat if your health permits. For every two degrees you turn down your thermostat in winter or up in summer, you can reduce costs by up to $200 a year.
Lower your water temperature. A 20 F reduction can save you over $80 a year.
Try cold water wash. Save up to $42 per year on electric water heating costs by washing with cold water.
Save up to 50 percent on outdoor lighting. Reduce outdoor lighting costs by up to 50 percent with a motion sensor. Just one 150-watt outdoor security floodlight can cost up to $125 a year. A string of six low voltage landscape lights can cost more than $90 a year. Use a timer to turn these lights off after bedtime to save while you're asleep.
Buy energy-efficient appliances. Save up to $80 a year on energy costs by choosing ENERGY STAR® appliances, such as a refrigerator
Seal and insulate your home. You could lower your heating and cooling bill more than $250 per year by having proper insulation, a time-tested step that can help save energy year-round.