As spring unfolds so do opportunities to save energy. Here are some no-cost ways to get you started on spring energy savings.
1. Clear the air. Open windows to allow fresh—free—air to circulate.
2. Cook outside. Enjoy a few hours of sunshine by using your grill or smoker to add flavor to meals. Or toss a salad or pull together sandwich fixings and enjoy them outdoors.
3. Search and seal. Cracks and gaps let conditioned air outside. Caulk and weatherstrip to seal leaks. Window and door frames need the most attention.
4. Brighten up naturally. Open blinds and curtains and turn off lights to save energy.
5. Be fan friendly. Use ceiling fans to circulate air. Fans should turn counterclockwise for cooling. And remember: Fans cool people, not rooms, so turn them off when the room is unoccupied.
6. Adjust the atmosphere. Remember to adjust your thermostat settings for the milder months ahead. Consider turning off the system entirely during mild spring weather.
7. Tune up. Schedule an appointment with an HVAC technician to identify potential problems with your system and have them addressed before peak cooling season arrives.
8. Maximize savings. Think about supply and demand. Plan to do household chores that require electricity during off-peak hours (when energy demand is lower—typically between 8 p.m. and 7 a.m.).
9. Take charge. Consider disconnecting electrical devices you don’t use regularly until you need them. Plugged-in devices use energy even when not in use. A smart power strip can make it easy to turn off multiple items.
10. Move outdoors: Trade lights, TVs, computers and devices for fresh air. You’ll be more active, have fun and save money.
