Fall is finally approaching, followed all too soon by winter. Which is another way of saying the holidays are about to sneak up on you and pounce. During those holidays means an over exertion on the bank account. But good news! There are several ways you can save some cash in preparation for indulging on holiday activities.
Burley Electrical Services has prepared a few energy saving tips to help you save some money this fall and winter holiday season.
– Keep minimal lights on, and have programmed holiday lights to help cut costs.
– Lower your holiday lighting costs. Use LED (light-emitting diode) holiday light strings to reduce the cost of winter decorating.
– During holiday trips, be sure all appliances and electronics are unplugged, even turned off they will still draw energy. “Standby” mode still uses energy to power features like clock displays.
– Use a power strip for you every day electronics. These strips can have a handful of devices plugged in, and simply shutting it to off when not in use can save you energy and money.
– Purchase ENERGY STAR-qualified TVs. They are up to 30 percent more efficient than noncertified models!
– The next time you are looking to purchase a computer, consider a laptop. They use much less energy than desktop computers. Set your computer to sleep or hibernate mode instead of using a screen saver. This will use less electricity during periods of inactivity.
– Unplug battery chargers when the batteries are fully charged or when the chargers are not in use. Many chargers draw power continuously, even when the device is not plugged into the charger.
– Heating your home with the help of the sun. Open the curtains to the south-facing windows. During the day having your curtains open can help generate heat inside your home, as well as light. Be sure they are closed up in the evening to ward off the cold.
– Drafty windows need attention. Use a heavy-duty, clear plastic sheet on a frame or tape it to the inside of your window frame during the old months. Ensuring the windows are tightly sealed will keep the cold at bay. Windows also could use tight-fitted insulated drapes to those windows that still feel chilly. Windows can be treated for further energy improving efficiency.
– Adjust your thermostat. When you are home and during waking hours, keep the thermostat as low as you can be comfortable. When you are away or sleeping, turn the thermostat back 10-15 degrees for around 8 hours and save 10% a year on your heating bills. Installing a programmable thermostat can make this a breeze.
– Investigate leaks and have them sealed. Air leaks are often found around utility cut-through for pipes, gaps around chimneys, recessed lights in insulated ceilings, and unfinished spaces behind cupboards and closets. Get these areas properly sealed. If there is any gaps in doors or windows, install weather-stripping or caulk to seal those leaky areas.
– Maintain heating systems. It’s always good to schedule a professional to service your heating system. Be sure to ask what maintenance is involved to keep your system running smoothly. Replace your furnace filter monthly.
– Water heating costs. To lower your water heating costs turn down the temperature of your water heater to 120 degrees. Not only will you benefit by saving money, but it’s a good safety tip to avoid scalding hands.
Residential Electrician & Commercial Electrical Contractor Service in Pompano Beach, Boca Raton, Davie, Fort Lauderdale & South Florida
A skilled electrician from Burley Electrical, Inc. can help you with many services and consultations. With our expertise, we can help install energy efficient systems saving you money for years to come. Contact us today for more information