Simple Tips

Stopping energy leaks is a lot easier than you think. It doesn't require a lot of time or a lot of money. Here are a few tips from your local electric cooperatives…the energy experts.

1. Replace your light bulbs. Replace regular light bulbs with energy efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs). CFLs consume 66% less energy and last up to 10 times longer!
2. Draw the drapes. During the hot summer days keep shades on south facing windows closed so you don't heat up the house with the afternoon sun. During the winter, close drapes at night so you keep the heat from the sun's energy inside your home.
3. High-tech temperature control. Turn your thermostat and air conditioning down when you are away from home. Installing a programmable thermostat is a great way to automatically control the temperature.
4. Chill out. Your refrigerator is one of the biggest energy consumers in your house. To keep it from leaking energy set it between 37 and 40 degree Fahrenheit. Keep your freezer at or slightly above zero, it will keep food frozen and use less energy.
5. Drip dry. Use cold water to clean clothes and use inside drying racks and outdoor lines as much as possible. If you can cut your dryer usage by half you could save approximately $45 a year.
6. Unplug. Home electronics, like computers and televisions, can leak energy even when they are turned off. Simply unplugging these electronics when they aren't in use can help cut you energy bill. Don't forget when you go away for the weekend or on vacation unplug all your electronics…every little bit helps.
7. Keep out the cold. Seal cracks near windows and use weather stripping around doors. This keeps the heat in and cold air out. This simple tip could save as much as 25% off your heating/cooling bill.
8. Hit the Switch. How often do you, or kids, leave a room but don't turn off the lights, TV or video game? Leaving the lights on consume precious energy and over time the costs add up.
9. Check Your Insulation. You spend the most money on heating and cooling your home. Inadequate insulation is often the culprit of energy leaks. It's an easy fix and you'll notice a difference immediately.
10. Window Wraps. Double paned storm windows can cut the amount of heat lost in the winter by as much as 25-50%. If replacing single paned windows is out of your budget, use plastic sheeting to keep out the cold.
11. Get Pumped. Replacing your gas furnace with an efficient electric heat pump can help you save as much as 30% on your heating and cooling costs. Plus, unlike traditional heating sources, electric heat pumps offer year round comfort keeping you warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
12. Hit the Showers in Five. As good as that hot shower feels, cutting down on the time you spend in it will also help you save money on your energy bill. Keep showers to five minutes or less and avoid taking long hot baths.
13. Wrap it up. A water tank insulation wrap is inexpensive but the savings are significant. Adding pre-cut insulation wraps to pipes leading to your water heater can also stop energy leaks.
14. Check Filters Regularly. Make a monthly date to check your furnace and air conditioning filters. Dirty filters can block the flow of air in and out of your home increasing energy costs.
15. Put a lid on it. The next time your cooking dinner for the family put a lid on your pots and pans. This will help cook the food faster so you use less energy. Microwave cooking uses even less.
16. Check the Clock. Try to limit the use of large appliances-washers, dryers, ovens and dishwashers-during the peak hours of the day. Save these chores for later in the evening when it's cooler.
17. Ask the Expert. Helping you stop energy leaks is part of Touchstone Energy's responsibility to you, our cooperative member owners. Talk to one of your local electric cooperative representatives about a home audit and we'll help you find even more ways to stop energy leaks.