At Winstar, we want you to enjoy the comforts of home while you make efficient choices, which will save energy and cost you less. Here are some things you can do to realize immediate results:
• Turn It Off: When you have finished using an electronic device, shut it off. For instance, leaving your desktop computer on for 24 hours per day can cost you approximately $150 over five years. Instead, put it to sleep or turn it off when you are not using it. When you utilize this approach with all your components, the savings add up.
• Unplug It: Do you have an unused appliance, such as a refrigerator? If so, unplug it! Winstar’s experts have calculated a savings of approximately $600 over five years. Also, plug your various devices into a power strip. All you have to do is flip one switch to turn everything on or off!
• Set the Right Temperature: Invest in a programmable thermostat to heat your home. During the winter, set it to 68 degrees or less during the daytime hours, and 55 degrees at night. During the summer, set your thermostat to a minimum of 78 degrees. Additionally, set the thermostat on your hot water heater between 120 and 130 degrees.
• Watch Your Lights: When you leave a room, turn off the light. Install LED (light-emitting diode) light bulbs in your light fixtures, because they use 85 percent less energy than their incandescent counterparts.
If you want to continue to refine your efficiency, Winstar’s energy specialists recommend the Energy Star Home Advisor for a detailed analysis of your energy consumption. Whether you are developing a new home energy plan or making continuous improvements, we hope these suggestions help you lead a more energy-efficient life!