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 Summer is expensive with regard to electricity,
while monthly income remains the same- and that is a concern. My
goal for energy use awareness is to help you save $15 to $20 monthly
that can then be applied elsewhere in your budget. With this in
mind, I will gladly share some tips:
1. Let’s start with the easiest- LED light bulbs. Prices have
dropped to under $3.00 per bulb and can last 15,000 hours. Consumer
organizations have estimated that converting all of your bulbs will
save you over $8.00 per month. So, my thought is to replace two
bulbs per month until all have been switched over. The change will
pay for itself. Also, look for giveaways at senior fairs and
community expos. Some organizations provide bulbs as a gift to
consumers.
2. The next easy one- look for drafts and air leaks. These
are detrimental to keeping your home cool in the summer! Most can be
fixed with weatherstrip sealing materials and calks available from a
local hardware store. Whatever you use to keep drafts out in winter
needs to stay in place to fight summer heat, including window
blinds.
3. Of course keeping the thermostat set higher (in summer)
has electric bill saving potential. The US Department of Energy
recommends a 78 degree setting when at home.
Some alternate cost-saving cooling methods
-
Lightweight & breathable clothing
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Ceiling and other type fans, but only when rooms
are occupied (on & off is OK)
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Avoid using the oven
Add these to the previously suggested ideas of
unplugging chargers, small & entertainment appliances for eight
hours or more (while sleeping and out-of-the-house). Power strips
make it easy to shut off multiple items with one easy to reach
switch. Remember, if you see a glowing light of any kind, the item
continues to draw and use “phantom power” that adds to your bill. [to top of second
column] |
4. If you have a manual thermostat, turn it higher when leaving
the home (80 to 85 degrees). As an alternate, inquire with your utility company
and senior services center to see if any rebates are offered on programmable
thermostats. While still expensive (often $170 or more), a rebate can drop the
price significantly. Estimates show that you can recover your investment in two
years. This is also a great reason for checking in periodically with your
electricity provider. Make time to see what other helpful programs and items
they have. Ask, ask, ask… and the same for the senior services in your county. A
good rule-of-thumb is to check on-line first and then speak with a customer
service representative.
5. Last, but not least- cooling systems should be checked annually for proper
functioning. The simple steps listed above will more than cover the inspection.
This service is best provided by a trained professional as systems should be
matched to your home’s size. Also, with new equipment, there are varied levels
of energy efficiency to be explained and understood. Rebates and credits might
apply too. Best wishes for a safe and happy Summer!
Steven Groner, Extension Educator,
e-mail stevenrg@illinois.edu
The SMART METER Education Team is funded in part by a grant from the Illinois
Science and Energy Innovation Foundation
University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and
employment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, please
contact the Edwards Co. Extension office at 618.445.2934
Source: Steven Groner, Extension Educator, Community and Economic Development,
stevenrg@illinois.edu
[Text provided by:
Terri Miller
University of Illinois
County Extension Unit #16 Director] |
