5 Energy Saving Tips for the Summer

Summer is in Full Swing and unfortunately your energy bill is probably rising as well. According to the U.S Department of Energy, your heating and air conditioning take up about 45% of your monthly utility bill.

Here are 5 Energy Saving Tips from Habitat for Humanity of South Palm Beach County that will help lower your utility bill - 

1. Clean your Air Filter - Changing your A/C filter monthly keeps your A/C running more efficiently. A dirty A/C filter will have to work harder which wastes "energy". Also, a clean A/C filter will improves air quality, helping your family and guests breathe easier. 
2. Programmable Thermostat -  Do you go to work during the day? No one home ? A programmable thermostat allows you to set the temperature to rise or fall during the day when no one is home. Energy Star reports a savings of up to $180 a year through auto programming. 
3. Cover those Windows - Using blinds, shades, light / sun resistant curtains, window tint or solar screens can help reduce the solar energy entering your home by about 70%, in particularly on east / west facing windows. 
4. Shade your Air Conditioner - Tree shade is one of the most effective ways of reducing your energy bill but also increasing the curb appeal of your home. Plants and trees help reduce the amount of sun light that reaches into your home. It is important to shade your A/C unit, as this will keep your unit running efficiently by not being exposed to direct sunlight. Efficiency increases by 10% thus reducing the energy it requires to operate the A/C thus reducing your energy bill. 
5. Replace your Air Conditioner -  Your older model A/C unit may actually be costing you upwards to 50% more in comparison to a newer high energy-efficiency unit. EER or Energy-Efficiency-Ratio or Energy Star qualified air conditioners are units you want to look into when choosing air conditioner units. 

Habitat for Humanity of South Palm Beach County "ReStore" are non-profit home improvement stores and donation centers that sell new and gently used furniture, home accessories, building materials and appliances to the public at a fraction of the retail price.

For Free Furniture Donation Pick-Up in Boca Raton or Delray Beach, Fl please call 561.455.4441 for scheduling. All donations are tax-deductible.