RELEASE: Simple Energy Saving Tips Save Consumers Money
Jefferson City, MO – Despite fluctuations in temperatures this year, consumers can still save on their energy bills by adhering to simple tips to keep consumption down. Missourians for a Balanced Energy Future pooled energy-saving tips suggested by Ameren Missouri, Empire District Electric, Kansas City Power & Light, Laclede Gas and Missouri Department of Natural Resources for a comprehensive list of ways to save consumers money during the remaining winter months.
“Whether Missouri is experiencing inclement weather or simply taking further advantage of mild temperatures, simple, energy-saving tips can also lead to lower energy bills”, MBEF Executive Director Irl Scissors said.
Heating Tips
·Energy bills drop by as much as 5% for every degree the temperature is reduced in the home.
·Addressing air leaks with foam spray, caulk and tape can cut heat loss by as much as 25% to 50%.
·As much as $500 goes right up the chimney from open dampers annually. Close dampers or invest in fireplace plug, flue sealer, or chimney balloon to prevent heat from escaping.
·Clean and replace HVAC filters and keep registers, baseboard heaters, and radiators clear of furniture.
·Closing off rooms saves energy, but don’t do more than 20% of the house to keep the furnace operating properly.
·The U.S. Department of Energy estimates a 20% energy savings with the right home insulation. VisitDOE.gov for an insulation guide.
Lighting Tips
·Replacing traditional light bulbs with compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) and LEDs that use 75% less energy and can last as much as 10 times longer.
·Opening shades can help illuminate the inside of a home and using solar-powered lights can actually eliminate outdoor lighting costs.
·Turn lights off when not in use and consider timers and motion sensors to ensure lights are off.
Electronics
·Power down computers not being used –power drawn during “sleep mode” can add 10% to an energy bill.
·Beware of “phantom” or “vampire” loads that draw power through chargers left in outlets or from appliances that are turned off, but remain plugged in. Power strips that can be turned off are a solution.
Cooking Tips
·Check the color of the flame on a gas stove. Blue is the optimal color; yellow suggests the gas is burning inefficiently and the burner should be cleaned with soap and water.
·Peaking in the oven can make temperatures drop by as much as 30 degrees. Also, opt for smaller appliances, like microwave or toaster ovens, that use half the energy of a conventional oven.
·To save more while cooking, avoid pre-heating. Bake several dishes at the same time. Thaw food and cover pots to cook faster.
Cleaning Tips
·Utilizing a dishwasher, especially when there’s a full load, is more efficient than washing by hand.
·Dry a full load of clothes without overstuffing, don’t over-dry clothes and always clean lint traps between loads to improve dryer efficiency.
·Line drying – even inside during wintertime – uses less gas and adds more humidity to a home.
·Consumers can save $30 to $40 a year waiting to wash clothes until there’s a full load and using cold water.
