Electric bill got you down? Fight back with these energy-saving ideas.
Install a Water Heater Timer
Traditional hot water heaters heat water throughout the day – whether you need it or not. Install a water heater timer, and set yours to run just when you need it. How much will this save? Expect to see a 5-12% reduction in your hot water heater's energy costs.Replace Regular Night Lights with LED
LED night lights cost less than 25 cents a year to run, and are guaranteed to last a lifetime.Switch to Solar Lights Outdoors
Harness the power of the sun by using solar lights for all of your outdoor needs. They'll absorb the sun's energy during the day, and run for free at night – a real bargain.Don't Put Uncovered Foods/ Drinks in the Refrigerator
Condensation makes the fridge work harder, and costs you more money.Allow Foods to Cool Before Putting Them in the Refrigerator
Placing hot foods in your fridge will increase the interior temperature, and cause your refrigerator to work harder.Keep Your Second Refrigerator in the Basement; Not the Garage
The extreme temperatures in your garage – hot in the summer and cold in the winter – will cause your refrigerator to work harder; so if you have a choice, place your second refrigerator in the basement, where the temperature is more constant.Cook with the Lids On
Foods cook faster with lids on because the heat can't escape.Don't Preheat the Oven Unless You Have To
For casseroles – and other foods that require long cook times – preheating the oven usually isn't necessary. The exception: meats and other temperature-critical foods.Use Your Microwave Instead of the Oven
Microwaves use less electricity, and don't release as much heat into your home.
