Money Saving Tips
Use these resources to help save money and energy at the same time in and around your home.
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Low-Cost Ways to Save Energy
- Air-dry dishes instead of using the dishwasher's drying cycle
- Turn off computer when not in use
- Plug home electronics into power strips and turn power strips off when not in use
- Lower thermostat on hot water heater to 120°F
- Wash only full loads of dishes and clothes
- Clean/replace A/C filters monthly. Cleaning or replacing dirty air filters can save five percent of the energy used to run the A/C system
- Close the air vent in the laundry room
- Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs
- Caulk or weatherstrip air leaks
- Repair leaky air ducts. These are recognized as a major source of energy waste and can prevent HVAC systems from working properly
- Close the blinds and shades during the day to keep out the sun's heat
- Plant deciduous trees around your home (particularly near windows) to reduce sunlight loading during summer. The deciduous trees lose their leaves during winter, letting sunlight in
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Get a Free Energy Audit
A representative from your energy provider company can come to your home and inspect windows and doors for leaks and look at the insulation, water heater, and piping. Call your provider to see if they offer this energy audit service free of charge. You can also calculate how much energy your home uses at the Department of Energy's Home Energy Saver.
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Buy a New Appliance
Most large appliances are sold with a yellow energy efficiency label. EnergyStar® is a government-backed program to help you protect the environment through superior energy efficiency. EnergyStar appliances use significantly less energy and water than older models. In addition, most large appliances are sold with a yellow energy efficiency label. These labels should be carefully examined and compared with similar products to find the most energy and cost-efficient product for you.
Additional Resources
- Tips on Saving Energy and Money at Home
- EnergyStar
- Florida Energy Extension Service
- Florida House Learning Center
- Florida Solar Energy Center
- Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy | U.S. Department of Energy