Saving money no electricity is becoming more and more important during as you try to save on monthly expenses during the weakened economy.  The most important way to save money is to find ways to avoid using your large appliances such as the furnace and air conditioner, washer and dryer.

Ways to save electricity by using your air conditioner less in the summer include:

  • Be sure to arrange your furnishings so that all air conditioning vents are uncovered.
  • Close off vents in the basement or rooms that are not being used.
  • Utilize ceiling fans to circulate the air and make it feel cooler in individual rooms of your home.
  • Make sure that your air conditioning unit is functioning properly and running at peak efficiency.
  • Purchase and install an automatic thermostat that allows the air conditioner to run less at night or when you are away from home.  An ideal temperature to run your thermostat at is 78 degrees, this will allow for your house to stay cool without overworking the air conditioner unit.
  • Install quality blinds or drapes that help to block out the sun and incoming heat through windows.
  • Try to avoid using your oven or dryer during the day to avoid adding extra heat to your home.

Ways to save electricity in the winter by helping your furnace run as efficiently as possible:

  • Be sure to check your furnace air filters regularly to ensure the furnace gets proper airflow.
  • Consider having your furnace checked to ensure there are no repairs needed and that it is running efficiently.
  • As in the summer, close vents to rooms that do not need heat.  Open them in the basement and close them down in upper floors.
  • Set your automatic thermostat to again control the temperature, in the winter let temperatures drop cooler at night to let the furnace run less.  An ideal temperature for optimal operation during the winter is 68 degrees.
  • Use blankets and wear sweaters to keep warmer and run the furnace less if possible.
  • You can also utilize your ceiling fans in the winter to help circulate the air.  Turn the direction of the fans so that they don’t blow cooler air down.

Other ways to save money on electricity throughout your home include:

  • Run the washer during off peak hours and use cold water.
  • Instead of running the dryer hang your clothes on a line to dry.
  • Have the insulation checked to ensure you have adequate levels.
  • Install or repair weather stripping around doors and windows.
  • Use the energy saver mode on your dishwasher.
  • Turn off lights in rooms that are not in use or install automatic light switches that will automatically turn them off.

Wherever you can, try to conserve energy by turning off appliance and lights that aren’t in use, buying energy efficient appliances, and making energy efficient choices throughout your home.