Save Energy, Save Money

Beating High Energy Bills During A Pandemic

There isn’t much you can control during this disaster of a year but you can lower your utility bill. With the heat waves this summer you may be finding yourself turning your thermostat down or just toughing out the humidity and heat. Either way your losing, whether that be comfort or money. Follow these simple tips and tricks to help lower your utility bill and stay cool all summer long. Keep reading to find out how to save money on your utility bill during a pandemic in the middle of summer.

Deciding whether to be comfortable or save money can be a hard decision, so why choose! Start with deciding what a reasonably comfortable temperature is for your household. Knowing what temperature is best suited for all the people in your home can reduce the thermostat tug-of-war that many people find themselves in. Some households prefer it to be cooler at night and warmer during the day or vise-versa. Maybe you leave for a long period during the day or find yourself turning the air down at night when the temperature outside is cooler.

UPGRADE TO A SMART THERMOSTAT

In any of these situations a programmable smart thermostat would be helpful. One of the most popular brands is the Nest thermostat by Google. You can adjust your temperature from your phone while at work or on the go. Programmable thermostats also allow you to set a schedule of when to turn the thermostat down or up so you are comfortable all day long and still saving money! There are two different options, the standard model and the learning model, the main difference being that the learning model will learn your patterns and adjust accordingly. These thermostats are even more convenient when you have a zoned boiler system and can set each room or zone to appropriate temperatures.

It has a decent price point and you can even get a rebate through Consumer’s Energy. CLICK HERE to learn more about the Consumer’s Energy’s smart thermostat rebate offers. Making it even simpler, Three T’s Plumbing, INC. can install it for you! Reducing the time you have your air on full blast without letting the house get too hot can help you save money.

USE CEILING FANS

Using ceiling fans can help to keep people in the room cool but unfortunately won’t do much in the way of cooling the room. According to Today.com, turning on a ceiling fan and turning your thermostat up two degrees can lower your air conditioning cost by up to 14%. An oscillating fan is an affordable and easy way to keep everyone in the room cool and can be found at your local superstore.

UNPLUG “ENERGY SUCKERS” WHEN NOT IN USE

Devices like laptops, computers, printers, televisions and the related accessories, games systems and Alexa or Google devices use energy even when not in use. Unplugging these items when you are not using them can reduce your bill and save you money. Another practice that uses a fair amount of energy is charging tablets, cellphones, and laptops overnight or for extended periods of time. You should only be charging these devices long enough for the battery to be full. Not only can leaving them plugged in be bad for the device’s battery it can also be a fire hazard. Try charging these in the hour or two before bed. This habit will not only save money on your utility bill but it will also help you to unplug before bed, which studies have found, help you fall asleep more quickly and get more restful sleep. Win, Win!

UNBLOCK VENTS & CLEAN DUCTS

Blocked ducts or vents can be another area of energy loss and excess use in your home. You can ensure that the cool air is making it into a room by checking vents to be sure they are not covered by furniture or other items. Having your ducts cleaned at least once a year and even more often if you live in a dusty area or have pets keeps the air in your home and your unit clean. Clean ducts help to keep your unit free of debris and allow it work as efficiently as possible which can help you save money.

CLEAN YOUR CONDENSING UNIT

Check your outdoor condensing unit often to be sure it is clear of dirt, leaves, grass or other debris. Built up debris reduces the effectiveness of heat exchange on the coils and leave your with a higher bill as your air conditioning system. You can shut the unit off and wash it with a hose to clear any dirt or grime. Key times to check the unit is after a storm, cutting the grass, and at the beginning of the season. Keeping it clear can save your energy and save money.

UPGRADE TO ENERGY STAR APPLIANCES

Upgrading to ENERGY STAR appliances can drastically reduce your energy usage and bill. Your furnace, air conditioner, washer, dryer, refrigerator/freezer, dishwasher, and more can all be found in ENERGY STAR approved units. You’ll find a yellow tag on these appliances that tell you how much energy each uses in a year and the cost to run the device. You’d be surprised how much money you can really save by upgrading any available appliances to ENERGY STAR approved units. All new appliances from dishwasher to laundry room and utility room can be replaced by Three T’s Plumbing. CLICK HERE to learn more about our financing option for upgrades, replacements, and repairs. Upgrade NOW, Pay LATER

CHANGE YOUR AIR FILTERS

Changing your air filters every three months, more often if you live in a dusty area or have pets, increases the efficiency of the unit and extends the life of the unit. If left unchanged a dirty filter will reduce the effectiveness of your air conditioning system or furnace, circulate unclean air into your home, and even start a fire! Changing your filter is easy and quick way to lower your bill and save money.

The pandemic we find ourselves in may be increasing bills in many areas while reducing your income but your energy bill doesn’t have to be one of them. CONTACT US TODAY to schedule your estimate for upgrading to a high efficiency, ENERGY STAR appliances and a smart thermostat to save money on your utility bill for years to come. Stay cool, stay safe & save smart! Three T’s Plumbing is here to help you and your family whenever you are in need.