Easy Steps to Save Money on Energy

Courtesy of Xcel Energy, here are some tips to help you reduce your energy usage and start saving money now!

Steps That Won't Cost You a Thing

• Tighten up doors, windows - if doors and windows don't close completely, they can let cooled or heated air escape, or they can let in winter cold and summer heat. Tightening up may be all that's needed.
• Shade your windows - adjust shades and blinds, or install window film to control the sun's heat.
• Utilize natural light - open up shades and blinds and turn off lights in rooms that are well lit by the sun. You can also turn off lights in unoccupied areas.
• Adjust your thermostat - just a few degrees' change in temperature levels can make a small difference in level of comfort but a big difference in the amount of energy used. We recommend: Cooling Season, 76-78 degrees; Heating Season, 66-68 degrees.
• Turning the temperature down on your water heater to 105 degrees can save money while still providing the hot water you need for domestic purposes.
• Unplug any equipment that is not in use.

Low-Cost Options

• Close the gaps - gaps that leak air and energy dollars can be found where doors meet, where parts of windows meet, and where doors and windows meet the walls. Caulking and weather-stripping materials can help keep the air from escaping.
• Install a seven-day programmable thermostat - an automatic thermostat will help to ensure that you're only using energy when you need it.
• Use a power strip - "smart" power strips with built-in occupancy sensors shut off plugged-in devices when no users are present, adding up your energy savings.
• Clean or replace the filter on your cooling or heating system. Some filters can be washed and re-installed; others should be replaced every month or two.
• Think ENERGY STAR®: when buying appliances, look for ENERGY STAR® products, which work the same or better than standard products but use less energy.