Each home is unique and keeping up with energy usage looks different for everyone. However, there are some commonalities when it comes to what hogs your energy. Here are five common energy hogs that increase your home’s energy usage.
- An old fridge or freezer in the garage. Although having extra appliances can be convenient, is it necessary? That extra fridge or freezer could be costing you more than you realize. If you must have an extra appliance outside, make sure it is up to date. Outdated appliances can take almost double the amount of energy a new one, with an Energy Star-rating, would use.
- Cooling an uninsulated area. Cooling down an area that isn’t insulated can cost you. Insulate these areas to prevent cool air from escaping.
- Hot tubs. Hot tubs can be a fun place to gather on summer nights. Consider upgrading your hot tub to a smaller, more insulated tub that comes with a cover and a pump that runs on low voltage. This way you can still have fun at half the monthly cost.
- Swimming pools. Spending days at home in the pool is a common past time for families. Consider installing a smaller, more efficient pump and reducing how often it runs. You can also look at installing a larger filter and maximizing the flow of water through the pipes by making them larger. These measures could cut your electric use for the pool pump by as much as 75%.
- Pumps. If you live on acreage or a farm, you probably have several pumps, including irrigation, well, septic and sump. You probably use those pumps until they break down. Consider replacing the oldest and most-used pumps over time with more efficient ones that are sized correctly for their task.
Create a personal plan to save energy and money this summer with our Energy Tips.