With the winter heating season winding down and the warm weather not far behind in the Grand Lake area, spring is a good time to check your home to ensure your plumbing and electrical systems are not wasting energy. Here are some things to check.

Fix Drafts and Air Leaks

While we usually think of drafts and leaks when the weather is turning cold, you can waste just as much energy in the summer by running your air conditioner in a drafty, poorly insulated home. Replace worn weather striping around doors and windows and ensure that you have sufficient insulation in your walls and attic.

Stop Vampire Energy Loss

With the increase in electric gadgets and appliances in the home, so does amount of electricity used. Energy that is consumed while electronics are not in use or are in standby mode is called vampire energy loss. Unplug devices that are not in use or use power strips that can turn off the power supply.

Don’t Rinse Dishes Before Loading Them In the Dishwasher

Most newer dishwasher and detergents are designed to clean dishes without pre-rinsing.

Replace Your Old, Inefficient Water Heater

Replacing a 10-year-old water heater with a new, high efficiency Energy Star® rated model  can save a family of four over $325 a year on their utility bill. At that rate the new water heater can pay for itself in less than three years.

Dry Clothes On a Clothesline

Clothes dryers use a lot of energy and generate heat and humidity which can make your air conditioner work harder. Consider using an outdoor or indoor clothesline to dry your clothes.

Perform a Home Energy Audit

Looking for more ways to save energy around the home? Consider hiring a professional to perform a home energy audit. Or, check out energy.gov for tips on performing your own energy audit to find out where your home is losing energy. With help from the pros you can prioritize areas that need attention to make your home more efficient and comfortable.