10 Energy Saving Tips
Want to save energy and money at home? Check out our top 10 low-cost or no-cost energy efficiency tips to help you save.
#1: Know what impacts your energy use.
Start by comparing your energy usage from month to month, or year to year, on your billing statement. Montana customers can also have a Home EnergyCheck.
#2: Evaluate your insulation levels.
Adding insulation will help keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Note: In the winter, cold floors and walls are signs of a poorly insulated home.
#3: Check your hot water heater’s temperature.
When it comes to the temperature settings on your water heater, make sure it’s safe and efficient — 120 degrees F is where you want it to be!
#4: Check your refrigerator and freezer temperatures.
Make sure your refrigerator is set between 37 and 40 degrees F and the freezer is between 0 and 5 degrees F.
#5: Check your heating equipment.
Make sure your furnace or other heating equipment is working properly by having it regularly checked and serviced. And change your furnace filter often to keep it clean!
#6: Inspect your windows and doors for air leaks.
You have air leaks if you can see daylight peeking around your door or window frame. Simply seal up the leaks by caulking, adding weather stripping or installing a door sweep.
#7: Wrap your hot water tank and install pipe insulation.
Hot water tank wraps and pipe insulation can be purchased at most hardware stores. Wrap the tank and install pipe insulation on the first 10 feet of the hot water pipe coming off the tank.
#8: Install low-flow faucet aerators and showerheads.
Low-flow faucet aerators and showerheads can be purchased at most hardware stores.
#9: Change out your light bulbs.
Replace incandescent light bulbs that are used more than three hours a day with energy-efficient CFLs or LEDs.
#10 Look for tax credits.
See if your energy efficiency projects and measures qualify for tax credits.