Articles - Archived Money Matters

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Help Your Budget Stand The Heat

Although summer's end is approaching, many of us will still experience extremely high energy bills for at least another month or two. If the heat already has your budget sweating bullets, check out the following money-saving tips:

  1. Use dishwashers, washing machines, electric clothes dryers and dehumidifiers during off-peak hours (before 10 a.m. and after 9 p.m.).
  2. For every 1 degree you increase your thermostat, you save approximately 1 percent on your bill.
  3. Save up to 14 percent by setting your thermostat two degrees higher and using ceiling fans.
  4. When running the washing machine, use warm or cold water (not hot), and always use cold water to rinse clothes. This will save you approximately 4 percent.
  5. If you have a programmable thermostat, program it around your family's schedule to save up to 10 percent.
  6. Check your air filter every month, and change it every three months. A dirty air filter causes poor airflow, which causes the HVAC unit to work harder, resulting in higher costs.
  7. Save up to 20 percent by sealing air ducts with weather stripping and caulking.
  8. Keep your curtains and shades closed to keep the sun's rays from overheating your home.
  9. Have your HVAC system serviced annually in order to operate more efficiently. If it's time to replace your unit, consider investing in an ENERGY STAR model.

For year-round predictability and convenience, consider an equal payment plan (EPP). Offered through most energy providers, an EPP does not lower your bill, but provides equal monthly payments based on your previous year's electricity usage. For more tips, visit www.energy.gov.