You may have already made some New Year’s resolutions regarding
your relationships with your waistline. But January is also the perfect time of
year to think seriously about energy solutions and resolve to make energy
conservation a priority in the coming months. After all, that’s
a resolution that can benefit not only your pocketbook, but the entire planet.
There are some energy-saving tips you have probably heard over and
over; for example, you can reduce your heating and cooling costs by about 10%
when you install a programmable thermostat. But there are plenty more ways to
cut down on energy use without sacrificing your quality of life. Here are five
ideas to get you started:
1. Slay
Power Vampires
You may have invited
energy-sucking vampires into your home without even knowing it. In the context
of power usage, a "vampire" is an appliance that draws power even when it’s not
in use. Having these various devices on in stand-by mode can increase your power
usage by up to 15%. One easy way to shut these devices down completely is to
hook them up to a plugstrip you can easily switch off.
2. Upgrade
Your Bulbs
This one is about as easy
as it gets in terms of energy solutions. Change out the incandescent light
bulbs in your house for compact fluorescent ones. As long as you look for "soft
white," you won’t get that industrial feel. If you really want to go high tech,
consider investing in LED bulbs.
3. Let the
Sunshine In
Take advantage of helpful
weather, and shut bad weather out. That means opening up blinds and curtains to
let the sun warm your home when you can, and making sure wind and cold can’t
get in. You may want to consider a professional energy audit, which can let you
know what areas of your home are losing energy or letting the elements in;
you’ll save money in the long run.
4. Use
Appliances Efficiently
The energy used to heat
water in your home probably makes up a significant portion of your utility
bills -- 14 to 18%, on average. Wash clothes in cold water, and only run the
dishwasher when it’s full. If you or your family members tend to lose track of
time in the shower, putting a timer in the bathroom (or even a small hourglass
that can attach to the shower wall with a suction cup) can ensure that shower
lengths stay under control.
5. Scour
Your Electric Bill
Take a good look at your
electric bill. It’s possible that you’re living in a deregulated energy market,
meaning that you can choose an alternative electric supplier. You can even deepen your commitment to
renewable energy by selecting a provider that uses green energy sources.
About Starion Energy, Inc.
Starion Energy, Inc. serves both commercial and residential customers as an electricity and gas supplier. Starion Energy, Inc.'s coverage area spans nine states throughout the U.S. To learn more about their services, visit starionenergy.com.