You hear the idiom all the time - there is no free lunch. And while that is almost always true, it doesn't mean that there aren't shortcuts to an end goal.
If you've read this site or taken advantage of the free subscription to it, you've undoubtedly noticed that even though the projects and and products I've profiles are generally simple, most require some background work and following a methodology.
The reason is simple - if your goal is to reduce your utility bills, the best approach is a methodical one that begins with understanding how your household uses electricity, gas, and water, and where you can improve.
But what if I were to tell you that there were a number of actions you can take without worrying about method? Steps that are so low cost and so likely to reduce your bills that you can just dive in...
There are a few such steps that we'll take a look at today.
1. Install Ratcheting Strike Plates.
Put a ratcheting strike plate on all external doors. At about $6.00 each, it is easy to afford and guarantees a better seal than you have today. And these strike plates only take 30 seconds to install!
2. Install Low Flow Shower Heads
If you have a standard shower head (i.e. 4, 5, or even 6 gallons per minute), this is the ultimate no-brainer. And even if you have a low flow head already installed, note that all low flow showerheads are not created equally. Most low-flow shower heads are rated 2.2 gallons per minute, so if you install a 1.5 GPM shower head you will see both your water heating and water bills go down.
3. Install a Programmable Thermostat.
Programmable thermostats are easy to install, can make your home more comfortable, and save you money. The savings are made based on running your air conditioner and heating less when it is needed less. Ad I said they can make your home more comfortable. How? Most of us follow a routine, and you can program your thermostat to match. Tired of the frigid bathroom on weekday mornings? Set your thermostat to warm things up 15 minutes before you get up.
4. Add Attic Insulation.
If you plan to stay in your home at least 8-10 years, have R-30 or less insulation in your attic, and live anywhere but the temperate California coast, it is an almost sure bet that adding attic insulation will pay for itself.
5. Buy a Smart Strip.
But a smart strip for your home theater and/or computer system. Smart Strips are intelligent power strips that will monitor one outlet and shut off or turn on other outlets based on the monitored outlet. for example, connect your TV to the monitor outlet, and then connect your stereo receiver, Blue Ray or DVD player, CD player, etc to the other outlets - turn your TV off and all of the other devices turn off, saving you all that vampire power.
Combine the above steps with The Eleven Habits of Highly Energy Efficient People, and you are sure to see savings!
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