After an unseasonably warm holiday season, the Chattanooga area is now experiencing winter full force. With these colder temperatures and more time spent indoors, many consumers are noticing higher energy bills.
If you’re looking for ways to keep your utility bills down and reduce energy usage, here are a few easy steps to take.
Conduct a free home energy checkup
HBAGC member EPB offers free in-person and virtual energy audits to evaluate current energy usage and share ways to save.
Weatherize your home
On a cold day, take a quick walk through your house and feel along windows and doors for cold air seeping in. Caulking and weatherstripping these areas can save up to 7.5% on energy costs throughout the year.
Use LED lights
You might be surprised to find out that lighting accounts for 15% of home energy costs. Making the switch to LED lights saves the average household $225 per year. Adding timers so that lights turn off automatically when a room is not in use can save you even more, especially if someone has a bad habit of leaving lights on.
Install a smart thermostat
These thermostats are more affordable than ever now and help you save money by using your HVAC system less while away from home.
Smart thermostats also track your energy usage, offer money-saving recommendations and notify you when your HVAC system might need repairs.
Lower the water heater settings
For every 10 degrees you lower the temperature on your water heater, you can save up to 5% on energy costs. The Energy Department recommends lowering the temperature to 120 degrees.
Limiting showers to 10 minutes and installing low flow shower heads can also save a family of four up to 60% on hot water consumption.
Unplug when not in use
Simply unplugging small appliances or devices or turning power strips off when not in use can save the average home up to $200 a year.
Upgrade your appliances
If it’s time to upgrade your appliances, be sure to look for the Energy Star label. You can save up to 50% on energy costs compared to same-year models without the Energy Star rating.
Check out Energy Star’s website to learn more about the most energy-efficient appliances on the market.
To help implement these tips and more, visit the Home Builders Association of Greater Chattanooga’s member directory at www.HBAGC.net to find a list of qualified, local home energy improvement professionals.