You are happy to see summer finally coming to an end in Corpus Christi, and you are no doubt looking forward to lower energy bills. No longer running your air conditioner at capacity doesn’t mean energy bills will necessarily improve significantly if you are guilty of common energy-wasting practices. Small changes around the home can help you to manage energy consumption and your energy bill all year long.
Smart Use of Heat-Generating Appliances
Like most households in the US, Texans appreciate a nice barbeque or cookout, so opt for the grill instead of the oven during the heat of the day. Limit oven use as much as possible, and if you need to use the oven, do so as late in the evening as possible. The heat from the oven in addition to already high daytime temperatures can make your home uncomfortable, place more strain on your air conditioner, and increase your energy consumption.
The same goes for clothes dryers and dishwashers. Try to use these as late in the day as possible, and ideally, only with full loads. To help you to save energy and money it is best to avoid or limit use of heat-generating equipment as much as possible.
Unplug Electronic Devices
Even if you have turned off electronic devices, most continue to use standby power if not unplugged. It might seem to be a hassle to unplug these systems after each use, but collectively standby power can account for 10 percent or more of your energy bill each month. If regular plugging and unplugging is a hassle, consider power strips which can power several devices, and which can save energy with a simple flick of a switch.
Look for Energy Leaks
Some energy leaks can be difficult to spot, and they often require a professional home energy audit. A home energy audit includes visual inspections, blower door tests, and thermographic technology to pinpoint sources of energy leaks so you can prevent energy loss throughout the home.
An energy audit will also reveal if your appliances are a source of energy waste. If so, it is a good idea to consider upgrading to energy-efficient appliances and systems. Contact Bodine-Scott Air Conditioning Co. at (361) 883-9900 to schedule an energy audit so you reduce energy waste and start saving.
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