TIPS FOR SAVING ENERGY IN YOUR HOME
Conserving electrical and natural gas energy is a very basic step we can take to help with the climate crisis. Everyone makes decisions, small and large, as to how much energy they will use daily. Eventually, by 2050 according to our township’s renewable energy resolution, we will focus on non-polluting renewable energy, but even then, we must use energy wisely.
Without making any extra purchases, there are many ways you can save energy in your home---energy efficiency:
- Turn off lights when leaving rooms. Use the least amount of wattage in bulbs. Don’t turn lights on unless necessary.
- When drying clothes, only use the dryer a few minutes to fluff the clothes. Then hang them on plastic hangers. Or use a drying rack. Dryers are a primary source of energy usage and waste.
- Keep your heat and air conditioning off or at as minimal levels as possible.
- If possible, turn off printers and computers at the end of the day.
Within years, energy efficiency and conservation can save you money, especially as you make new purchases:
- Consider replacing your present heating and air conditioning system with an HVAC electrical system. This will ultimately be best for the environment and your pocketbook.
- Replace all lights with LED lights. They have come down in price and really save energy.
- Always buy an Energy Star appliance.
- Update windows for thermal insulation. Add insulation to your walls and attic.
- Consider switching to solar power. Solarize Delco can help you make this decision. Contact facebook.com/Solarize Delco. If your home is not suitable, switch to other renewable energies at www.papowerswitch.com.
Before making any of these changes, consider having PECO do an energy audit, so as to prioritize your needs. PECO also has rebate programs, where you can get money back for LED light purchases, Energy Star appliance purchases, and other energy efficiency changes. This rebate program ends May 15, 2021, so begin now to evaluate energy efficiency in your home.