Not all energy savings tips are created equal. Some common myths out there might actually make things worse, wasting more money.
Josh Sterling, Manager of Energy Solutions, gave us some of the more popular myths and explains which ones are Energy Savers and which ones are Energy Wasters.
Grilling outside instead of cooking indoors can help save energy.
Energy Saver or Energy Waster?
This is an Energy Saver!
Outdoor grilling keeps heat out of the house, reducing the need for extra air conditioning and saving energy by not using appliances.
Closed vents in unused rooms saves energy.
Energy Saver or Energy Waster?
This is an Energy Waster!
In many homes, closing vents can actually reduce system efficiency and increase pressure in ductwork, which may waste energy instead of saving it.
Ceiling fans cool the room, so you should leave them on all day.
Energy Saver or Energy Waster?
This is an Energy Waster!
Ceiling fans cool people, not rooms or pets. Turning them off when no one is home saves energy without affecting comfort.
Turning your thermostat way down cools your home faster.
Energy Saver or Energy Waster?
This is an Energy Waster!
Your air conditioner cools at the same rate regardless of the temperature setting. Setting it extremely low only makes the system run longer and uses more energy.
It’s better to leave the thermostat low when you leave the house, so your air conditioner doesn’t have to work as hard when you come back.
Energy Saver or Energy Waster?
This is an Energy Waster!
If you’re going to be gone more than a few hours, it’s better to raise the thermostat (7-10 degrees) so you aren’t cooling an empty home. If you have a smart thermostat, consider adjusting the temperature down just before you return home or set a schedule.
West-facing windows take the brunt of the afternoon sun, so it’s important to try to block or minimize the direct sunlight that comes through.
Energy Saver or Energy Waster?
This is an Energy Saver!
It’s a good idea to use shrubs, trees or solar shades outside your home or curtains inside the home to limit the light coming in from west-facing windows.
Concerned your home is wasting energy?
CoServ offers free Energy Assessments for homes and businesses. We can do them over the phone or on-site.
Visit CoServ.com/EnergyAssessments to learn more.
