As a non-profit electric cooperative, Tipmont’s goal is to sell you the least amount of energy that you actually need. We don’t pocket more profit if we sell more energy. Our only profit is your satisfaction.
With summer just around the corner, here are five tried and true ways to lower your energy usage during warm weather.
#1: Seal those leaks
Weather affects your energy bill more than any other factor. As temperatures rise, we use more energy to cool our homes. However, if we have a leaky home, that cool air won’t stay inside. Apply caulk around any air penetrations such as door and window frames and use weather-stripping to seal doors and windows.
#2: Keep interior doors open
If you have spare bedrooms, the worst thing you can do is keep the doors shut. When interior doors are closed, the room is placed under pressure because airflow is now blocked. Air trapped in the pressurized bedroom, however, will find ways to escape.
That air will be unconditioned, particularly if the room is poorly insulated. Your air conditioner will have to work harder to re-condition it, driving up your energy usage.
#3: Close the drapes
Close your shades and drapes during the day to help keep heat out in summer.
#4: Limit consumer electronics
Consumer electronics play in increasingly larger role in your home’s energy consumption. In addition to using energy, they put off heat, sometimes even when switched off. Use an electronic power strip for your computer and other electronics to eliminate standby power consumption.
#4: Replace incandescent bulbs
Lighting makes up about 10% of home electricity costs. If you have incandescent bulbs, 90% of the energy output is heat, not something you want during the summer months. You may have heard that each Tipmont membership is eligible for 8 free LED bulbs this year. Visit tipmont.org/freeledbulbs to find out how you can get your free bulbs.
#5: Schedule an energy assessment
Each home is different and each of us uses energy differently. The best tip I can offer is to take advantage of Tipmont’s free, in-home energy assessment. Our energy advisor will come to your house and give you a complete assessment of where your efficiency opportunities lie.
At the end of the assessment, you’ll receive a custom report detailing the steps you can take to save on your energy bills. Call our office at 800-726-3953 today to schedule your free assessment.
