Energy Efficiency Helps Everyone
As flowers start to bud and the landscape becomes a little greener, I start to think about changes I need to make around the house. Whether it’s cleaning the garage or changing out my winter clothes for lighter ones, spring cleaning comes for everyone.
And what better time than spring to implement small changes that can save energy—and ultimately money? When you optimize your energy use, it benefits not only your pocketbook but also your neighbors by lowering costs for everyone. If we all make an effort, that effect is magnified.
Rio Grande Electric Cooperative is a not-for-profit power provider. That means our mission is to provide you with the electricity you need to improve your quality of life — not turn a profit for shareholders. An important part of that mission entails empowering you to manage your electricity use.
But where do you start when it comes to energy efficiency?
Improving the envelope, or physical barrier, of your home is a good place to begin. Sunlight, seasonal temperature changes and wind can loosen up even a tight home, increasing air leakage. Doors and windows may not close tightly, and ductwork can spring leaks, wasting cooled and heated air.
When you use caulk to seal gaps around pipes, dryer vents, fans and outlets, it helps to tighten the envelope and improves efficiency. Apply weatherstripping around overlooked spaces like your attic hatch or pull-down stairs.
Take a look at your programmable thermostat. When was the last time you checked that it was programmed for the current season and family schedule? This is 1 of the best energy-saving tools at your fingertips.
It enables you to fine-tune the temperature during particular hours of the day. Many models allow you to differentiate between weekday and weekend schedules, and smart thermostats can learn your schedule and adjust automatically.
If you don’t have a programmable thermostat, now is a great time to install one. This device can save you 5%–15% on heating and cooling bills, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, because it adjusts the temperature for times when the family is sleeping or away from the house.
This is also a great time to inspect your air conditioning system. A springtime check will give you a chance to repair any problems before the weather gets hot and a poorly maintained system leaves you without cool indoor air.
After heating and cooling, water heating is the next-largest energy expense in a home. Installing a blanket on your water heater will help it operate more efficiently. You should also turn down the temperature on your water heater to 120 degrees to save even more (and prevent scalds).
Rio Grande Electric Co-op is here to help you manage your energy use. It’s good for everyone.