Save Money - Be Energy Aware
By: Andy Farmer, Virginia Energy Sense
As the leaves begin to fall, so do the temperatures. That means it’s the perfect time to examine your home for ways to stay warm all winter while saving money on your utility bills. Our staff at ENDEAVOR recently connected with Ford Carson from our partner Virginia Energy Sense (VES) on some energy-saving tips and tricks.
ENDEAVOR: What can people do to stay comfortable and save money on their next power bill as temperatures start to drop?
Ford Carson: There are many ways both homeowners and renters can save energy during the coldest months of the year. For example, you can open your window shades to take advantage of natural heat and light coming from the sun. And while your shades are open, make sure only the lights you need are turned on. Something this easy can save you anywhere from 10% to 40% on lighting expenses.
ENDEAVOR: With many Annandale residents still working remotely, how can we conserve energy in our home offices?
FC: While working during the day, set your programmable thermostat to the coolest comfortable temperature and decrease the temperature when you go to sleep or leave your home. Virginia Energy Sense also recommends plugging laptop adapters, phone chargers, and similar equipment into power strips. Then you can easily turn off the power strip so that devices that aren’t being used don’t continue to draw electricity and add to your power bill.
ENDEAVOR: How can people prepare their homes to save energy and money during the winter?
FC: Ensure that your home is properly insulated. Here’s a good rule of thumb: If your insulation is even with or lower than your floor joists, you should add more. If you’re not sure how to check, you can call a home insulation contractor. A draft in your house can be worse than a chilly night — it can drain your bank account. The U.S. Department of Energy says the energy savings from reducing drafts may range from 5% to 30% per year. Weatherize your house by caulking and weather-stripping every door and window.
ENDEAVOR: What are some steps people can take to save money on their power bill year-round?
FC: Small steps can go a long way. First and foremost, unplug your appliances when they’re not being used. To keepyour heating and cooling system running well, clean or replace the filters and make sure vents aren’t covered by appliances, furniture, or rugs. We also recommend a home energy audit. You can do an audit yourself or hire a professional. Either way, it will help you identify more ways to decrease your bill for years to come.
ENDEAVOR: How can people learn more about ways to save ahead of the coldest months of winter?
FC: Virginia Energy Sense has resources for residents during Energy Awareness Month and all year round. Just go to VirginiaEnergySense.org for more home energy tips. You can also follow us on Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter for advice and energy-saving news.
Andy Farmer is the manager of Virginia Energy Sense, the Commonwealth’s statewide energy education program under the guidance of the State Corporation Commission.
