Taking steps to save energy around the home is not only a smart way to save on your utility bill, but will help conserve Colorado’s natural resources. We have put together some tips to help you keep your home’s plumbing and heating system operating as efficiently as possible.
Heating & Cooling
- If you’re planning on replacing your older air conditioner or furnace, consider purchasing a high efficiency model with an ENERGY STAR™ rating. ENERGY STAR™ is a government-backed program designed to help consumers save money and protect the environment through superior energy efficiency. The ENERGY STAR™ label will tell you how much energy you can expect the model to use anually.
- Insulate ceilings to R-38 levels if your attic has less than R-19.
- Caulk around windows, doors and anywhere air is leaking in or out.
- Apply weatherstriping around windows and doors.
- Wrap heating and cooling ducts with duct wrap.
- Set the furnace thermostat at 68 degrees or lower, and the air-conditioner thermostat at 78 degrees or higher, if your comfortable. 3 percent to 5 percent more energy is used for each degree the furnace is set above 68 degrees and for each degree the air conditioner is set below 78 degrees.
- Upgrade to a smart thermostat that learns your routine and adjust the temperature when rooms are unoccupied.
- Clean or replace furnace and air-conditioner filters regularly, following manufacturer’s instructions.
- Replace old windows with new high performance multi-pane windows.
- Install shades, awnings or sunscreens on windows facing south and/or west to block summer light. In winter, open shades on sunny days to help warm rooms.
- Close the damper when the fireplace is not being used. Try not to use the fireplace and central heating system at the same time.
Water Heating
- Set the water heater thermostat at 140 degrees or “normal.” If you have a dishwasher. Otherwise, set it at 120 degrees or “low.”
- Use a water heater blanket.
- Wash your laundry using a cold water detergent.
- Wash only full loads in a dishwasher and use the shortest cycle that will get your dishes clean. If operating instructions allow, turn off the dishwasher before the drying cycle, open the door and let the dishes air dry.
Plumbing
- Fix defective plumbing or dripping faucets. A single dripping hot water faucet can waste 212 gallons of water a month. That not only increases water bills, but also increases the gas or electric bill for heating the water.
- Install energy-saver shower heads.
- Ensure outside faucets are not leaking
- Use a drip irrigation or timed watering system for watering.
- Install a rain sensor for outdoor watering to ensure your sprinkler doesn’t come on unleass it’s needed.
