With
the beginning of summer right around the corner, we Texans use the air
conditioning at all times and notice that our utility costs sky-rocket! If you
think of other ways to conserve energy in the home, these small changes can
help to off-set some of those increases. Take a peek at some suggestions!
1.
Your fridge accounts for 20% of a home's energy use each year, so adjust the
thermostat to 37 degrees in the refrigerator and 3 degrees in the freezer. If
you have an energy-saver feature, make sure it is on and look at the gasket
around the doors to make sure it is sealing properly.
2.
When you use your washing machine, opt for either warm or cold water, rather
than hot for washing your clothes.
3.
When you run your washer or dishwasher, do so with a full load. If you allow
your dishes to air dry and do not use your dishwasher's drying cycle, you can
save 20% of the amount of electricity that your dishwasher uses each year.
4.
Adjust the thermostat on your water heater down from 140 degrees to 120 degrees.
5.
When you replace your old appliances, do so with the most energy efficient ones
that your budget will allow. Look for the Energy-star label which indicates
products that save both energy and protect the environment.
If you need help in creating an outdoor
entertainment spot, keep Total Renaissance in mind. We just completed this one!
Guest blogger Tamara Hyland is a principal of Total Renaissance
Construction and
blogs about homes, lifestyles styles and decorating and remodeling trends.
