Sometimes it’s hard for a co-op member to realize or accept that their high bill might have something to do with their own habits. Yet knowing what you’re doing wrong is the first step toward changing
Thermostat Set Too High or Too Low
It costs a lot to indulge in 75˚ F indoors in January—and in August, 65˚ F is an expensive proposition, too.
Most people tend to leave their thermostat set to the same settings when they are gone. That may be okay for a quick errand, but if you are going to be gone for long periods or all day, cut back on heating or cooling by 3 to 5 degrees.
Water Temperature Too High
Do you know the temperature setting of your water heater right now? It might be hotter than you want or need. Older electric units take more energy to heat and maintain.
Refrigerator/Freezer Temperature Too Low
If you’ve never checked the setting on your fridge or freezer, now is a good time to see whether it might be wasting money.
Washing & Drying Clothes
Thoughtless habits can get expensive in the laundry room. Most clothes can be washed in cold water. Make sure you are using full loads. Smaller more frequent loads cost you.
Leaving Lights On
A lot of us wander into and out of rooms without giving a thought to the lights we leave on. It all adds up. It’s also one of the easiest factors to control through habits and LED bulbs.
Electronics
Many electronic devices are designed to stay in standby mode—using electricity even when they’re switched off. Unplug them when not being used for long periods of time.