Stuck inside because of the cold weather? Don’t let Jack Frost ruin your saving opportunities! With these quick tips from Ameren Illinois, you can create energy-saving opportunities in your home — even if it’s frigid outside.
Switch Out Savings
Take this time to check all your fixtures for burned-out bulbs. Instead of replacing them with standard light bulbs, look into energy-efficient LED bulbs. ENERGY STAR® certified LED light bulbs use up to 80% less electricity and last up to 25 times longer than conventional incandescent lighting.
Clear the Air
Change your Air Filters every 30 days, especially during those months when you use your HVAC system the most. Routinely changing filters can save you up to 15% on your cooling costs. While you are changing the filter, take a minute to clean the evaporator coil so your unit runs efficiently.
Dust Away Inefficiency
Make a point to dust off all of your electronics, including light bulbs. Those air vents on your computer can get clogged with dust, making the fan inside work harder to keep the insides cool. Cleaning out the dust that gathers in your dryer vents, under your refrigerator and in the track of your sliding glass door can also prevent energy loss.
Hate tossing dusting pads every time you clean? Try a reusable Telescopic Duster. It tackles those hard to reach areas with ease, and when you’re finished, toss it in the washing machine.
Change Direction
Did you know that every spring and autumn you’re supposed to change the direction of your ceiling fans? In the winter, the fan should be turning clockwise to push all the warm air from the ceiling downward. Don’t forget to dust the blades while you are up there!
Tips for the Kitchen
Did you know that your refrigerator can account for 14% of your household’s energy costs? Keep it running smoothly by making sure the coils are clean. Also, try to not overpack your refrigerator with all those delicious leftovers so that the cool air can circulate through your food easily.
Ready to start your next energy-saving project? Find all the supplies you need for your power savings project at your local Rural King.
For more energy-saving tips and projects, visit the Ameren Illinois Energy Savings Center.