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Winter Energy Conservation
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As we temporarily bid goodbye to our air conditioners and pool heaters, we must consider the energy needs of our homes for the chilly months ahead.
With more time spent entertaining and hibernating in our homes during the winter, this season can be especially brutal on energy costs and waste. Luckily, there are numerous ways to save both energy resources and some extra green for your wallet.
TURN OFF AND UNPLUG
One of the easiest ways to conserve is turning off lights and other electric items when leaving the room. If you want to take it a step further, unplug under-used appliances. According to Roseville Electric, a spare garage refrigerator can add 10-25 percent to your electric bill. You don’t need to unplug your kitchen fridge, just remember that every time you open the door, the compressor needs to run for eight to 10 minutes.
Keep in mind that the benefits to the end of Daylight Saving Time include more than just an extra hour of sleep; adjust all automatic timers on lights, sprinklers and other relevant devices to accommodate the change.
THE HEAT IS ON (AND OFF)
Our heating systems are perhaps the biggest energy suckers of the winter season, but it’s still simple to save without sleeping in an icebox. Thermostats should be adjusted regularly to suit the schedule and needs of your household. According to SMUD, for every two degrees you lower your thermostat you’ll save 10 percent on your heating bill. They suggest setting and keeping the thermostat at 68 degrees when the home is occupied and 55 degrees at night or when it’s unoccupied. If you have a heat pump, set the lower temperature at 63 degrees. Similarly, PG&E recommends programming thermostats to turn heat on 30 minutes before people arrive and off 30-60 minutes before they leave. If you find this temperature range on the chilly side, keep a sweater or blanket handy.
