Reduce Your Energy Bills This Spring!

The grass is getting greener, trees are sprouting new leaves, and people are putting away their winter coats. Spring is in the air, and that means a new opportunity to evaluate your home’s energy usage and prepare for warmer months ahead.

Here are five easy ways you can save on your energy bills this season:

1. Give your AC a tune-up. Have your air conditioner serviced early to ensure it runs efficiently, economically, and safely throughout the season. Schedule an inspection and maintenance visit from a certified HVAC technician, who can make sure your system is up to speed and catch any problems before they become major expenses. Routine maintenance can reduce your air conditioner’s energy consumption by as much as 15 percent.

2. Check your water heater. To avoid costly repairs in the future, drain a quarter of your water heater tank annually to remove sediment and debris. Adjust the thermostat to 120 degrees to avoid scalding temperatures and reduce energy costs.

3. Clean out your fridge. At a whopping 14 percent of the typical household’s energy expense, your refrigerator is an energy hog. By properly cleaning out your fridge, you can reduce its energy consumption and cut down your electricity bill. Clear any dirt and dust from the coils. Remove unneeded and old food to allow air to circulate and increase efficiency. You shouldn't leave your fridge completely empty, however; by keeping it about two-thirds full, you can prevent air from leaking out when you open the door.

4. Seal cracks. In warm weather, cool air can escape through the cracks and openings in your home while hot air leaks in. Seal any openings with a clear or paintable caulk. By sealing the air leaks in your home, you can cut energy costs by almost 30 percent while creating a healthier indoor environment.

5. Be smart with your thermostat. Most experts agree that 78 degrees is the ideal temperature to save on energy costs while maintaining comfort during warm weather. For every degree you set your thermostat above 78 degrees during warmer weather, you could save an estimated 6 to 8 percent off your energy bill.