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6 ways to save on your energy bills

6 ways to save on your energy bills

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Winter is right around the corner and that means the heater is kicking on and lights are staying on longer. Want to save some extra cash without making winter coats and wool socks mandatory attire? Here are 6 ways to increase your home’s efficiency.

1. Air duct cleaning

If the air ducts are like the veins and arteries of the body, then dirt and dust are like the plaque that can eventually bring the whole system down. If your air ducts are clogged, your HVAC system has to work twice as hard to get even a little bit of air through. Call a local professional for an air duct inspection.

Shutterstock
Shutterstock

2. Weather stripping

While sunlight pouring through windows may make for a pleasant atmosphere in your home, light (and air) pouring through the cracks in your doors sure doesn’t. Luckily, it’s an easy problem to fix. Grab some weather stripping at your nearest hardware store and apply to all of the areas where you see light coming through.

3. Install or update insulation

Proper insulation combined with the weather stripping we mentioned in tip No. 2 can save you up to 20 percent on your monthly heating and cooling costs according to Energy Star. Even if your home is relatively new, you may need to check if insulation was properly installed in exterior walls as well as in your attic. Your insulation contractor can help you choose the correct kind of insulation and even help you apply for any rebates you might qualify for. Find an insulation expert in your area here.

Shutterstock
Shutterstock

4. Invest in a new thermostat

You can save as much as 10 percent by just turning your thermostat back by 7 to 10 degrees for 8 hours a day, according to the Department of Energy. Make it easy by buying a programmable thermostat at your local hardware store and setting it for 68 while you’re awake and lowering it while you’re asleep or away from home.

5. Change to compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs)

Did you know that this simple change can lower your bill by as much as 75 percent? Not only will your electric bill be lower, but you’ll have to replace them less frequently and your rooms will be lighter.

Shutterstock
Shutterstock

6. Rethink that hot shower

Please, out of consideration for your friends, family and coworkers, don’t skip your shower. You can, however, lower the temperature, decrease the temperature on your hot water heater to the warm setting or even invest in an energy conscious model. Any of these options will decrease your bill and a new hot water heater could even score you a rebate! Find a local plumber to help you pick the right model and install it correctly.

Increase your home’s efficiency this fall and winter will definitely land you on the nice list and help you save a little money you can use to buy the latest holiday must-haves. KSL Local is here to help you find the most reliable local professionals for anything you need in Utah.

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