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Tips for Reducing Energy Usage
Date: December 14, 2006
Author: David Smidt, SeniorDiscounts.com

As discussed in previous columns, there are many programs available for older Americans and low income households to receive discounts on their utility bills. But what about those who may not qualify for these types of discounts? Here are some free and low-cost tips that may help save you hundreds of dollars this winter.

While some of these tips may be fairly obvious, you may not realize just how much they could save you in the long run.

1. Install Automatic Thermostats and Light Timers
Programmable thermostats are not very expensive, from $30 and up, and can save up to $100 a year when programming the temperature to decrease while you are away or asleep. If you don't like coming home to a dark house, install light timers. These are inexpensive and can save you from keeping lights on all day. Motion detectors are also inexpensive and you won't have to leave the outdoor lights on all night.

2. Put on a Sweater
For each degree you lower your thermostat in the winter; you can save up to 5% from your heating bill. Moisture content can play a big role in how cool a room feels as humid air retains heat better than dry air.

3. Install low-flow Water Devices
Showers and baths account for about 40% of a home's hot water energy costs. Installing low-flow shower heads and sink aerators can reduce the hot water consumption can reduce hot water usage by as much as 50%.

4. Use the Microwave
Microwave ovens use about 60% less energy than electric stoves. Unless you are cooking a large meal, use the microwave to reheat and cook foods.

5. Change your Light Bulbs
Convert frequently used incandescent light bulbs to energy-saving compact fluorescent bulbs. While they are more expensive to purchase, their long life makes them the cheapest lighting option in the long run and can save you up to $50 per light bulb over its lifetime. These light bulbs use two-thirds less energy and last up to 10 times longer.

6. Use the Dishwasher
Dishwashers use about 40% less hot water when fully loaded than washing the dishes yourself.

7. Full Loads
Wash your clothes only when you have a full load and switch to cold water washing of laundry. Detergents formulated for cold water get clothes just as clean and could save you as much as $63 a year.

8. Water Heater
Lower the temperature on your water heater to no more than 120 degrees and install water tank insulation wrap, which costs about $20 and helps hold the heat inside.

9. Things to Remember
Close the curtains to retain heat. Turn off everything when not in use; including lights, TVs, and use the automatic screen savers and power down features on your computers and other electrical equipment.. Close fireplace dampers when not in use.

10. Have a Safe and Warm Winter.
(Information provided by the Alliance to Save Energy and the US Department of Energy.)

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