These recommendations can save energy and money in your home. They’ve been placed into three categories: Energy Wise, Energy Saver and Energy Champion.
Energy Wise (no cost!)
- Remove that extra refrigerator
- Clean refrigerator coils
- Repair leaky faucets and toilets
- Turn your water heater down to 115° or the "Normal" setting when home, and to the lowest setting when you leave. Water heating accounts for about 13% of home energy costs.
- Reduce air conditioning costs by using fans and keep windows, doors, and shades closed during the day.
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- Whenever possible, wash clothes in cold water. About 90% of the energy used in a clothes washer goes to heating water.
- Run your dishwasher and clothes washer only when fully loaded. Fewer loads reduces energy and water use.
- Clear your dryer's outside vent and clean the lint filter after every load. When you need a new dryer, shop for one with a moisture sensor that automatically shuts off when clothes are dry.
- Unplug electronics, battery chargers, and other equipment when not in use. Combined, these small items can use as much power as your refrigerator.
Energy Saver (low cost)
- Replace standard incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) and save 75% of lighting costs. CFLs are constantly improving and a large variety including candelabras and dimmable units are now available.
- Install an Energy Star programmable thermostat and set it to 78 degrees in the summer and 68 degrees in the winter. Make sure to locate it away from natural cool and hot spots in your house.
- Replace refrigerator gasket as needed
- Replace or clean A/C and heater filters for 10% saving on your energy bills.
- Seal any air leaks with caulking, sealing or weather stripping. You can test for leaks by holding a lit incense stick next to windows, doors, electrical boxes, plumbing fixtures, electrical outlets, ceiling fixtures, attic hatches and any other area where air passes to the outside. When the smoke stream travels horizontally, you’ve found a leak.
- Cut water use by installing faucet aerators, low-flow showerheads, and low-flush toilets. As much as 19% of California’s electricity is used to pump, transport, and treat water.
Energy Champion (extra investment, but large payback)
- Replace your old water heater with a tankless unit
- Install tinted window film
- Install an attic exhaust or whole house fan
- Add exterior awnings and plant shade trees
- If your house has a flat roof, paint it white
- Install double-paned windows
Remember to check your local utilities for rebates and incentives if you are replacing or purchasing any equipment or appliances. Their websites will tell you if they offer the following:
- Rebates on appliances like energy efficiency clothes washers, dishwashers, refrigerators, air conditioners, Energy Star lighting, pool pumps, whole house fans, and water heaters
- Summer Discount Plans