Story by Art Department / March 23, 2016

1. Windows: Replacing your windows with double-sided glass helps keep your air or heat in while keeping the harsh summer or
   winter out.
2. Low-flow shower head: Using a low-flow shower head will help reduce energy of heating water while also reducing the water bill
3. Thermostat settings: During the winter setting your thermostat to 68 during the daytime and 55 at night as well as 78 in the summer will help reduce the amount of energy being used to heat or cool your home. For summer, use more fans instead of central cooling, every degree you raise your thermostat in the summer decreases cooling costs between 7 and 10%. In the winter, however, make sure to raise the temperature in the house slowly; bumping up the temp quickly activates the heating strip which cause a lot of energy to be used.
4. Close your air vents: When using central cooling or heating, remember to close off air vents in rooms that aren’t being used or that are rarely used. This way you don’t waste money paying for a room to be cool or warm that isn’t in use.
5. Clothes washer: Make sure that you wash your clothes in warm or cold water. Switching back and forth from warm to hot causes strain on your gas heater resulting in a higher energy bill.
6. Replace old appliances: The older the appliance the more energy it needs in order to function properly; changing your appliances every few years will help your energy cost go down exponentially.
7. Unplug your appliances: When not using your appliances, simply make sure that you unplug them. Even when not in use, energy runs through the power cords and raises your energy bills. Especially, make sure to unplug battery chargers. Many chargers draw power continuously.
8. Solar Panels: If you install solar panels for your home, not only will your energy bill gradually lessen, but you will save enough that you will earn money back from the purchase. Some electric companies even offer rebates; not to mention the federal and state tax breaks that are given to homeowners with solar paneling.
9. Roofing: Along with making sure that your roof is well insulated, you can also apply a reflective coating. This makes it so sunlight reflects off instead of getting absorbed into the roof causing the home to get hotter in the summer months.
10. Lastly, block the sun: Planting trees around your home will create a shade that can bring energy costs down. In addition to this, having awnings outside and blinds and shades inside can keep the sun off the house and lower the need for central cooling.

Written by: Claire Nellums

<Solar Project by: southerncurrentllc.com>

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