10 Simple Ways to Save Money on Appliances Annually

[Cassi Garrigan]

These simple tips on how to conserve energy in your house can have a huge influence on your bottom line.

Going green isn't simply helpful for the environment-- it can save you cash also. And what better time to start some excellent practices right now?

1. Refuse the heat.

Break out the sweaters and snuggle into that blanket. Decreasing your thermostat a few degrees can equate to monetary savings. You can conserve as much as 1% for each degree you lower your thermostat for eight hours, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

2. Change that filter.

Swap out your furnace filter every 3 to 4 months (more regularly if you have a big family and/or pets) and get an annual upkeep check. Dirty furnace filters restrict air flow and boost energy use. Keeping your furnace clean and appropriately changed will conserve approximately 5% of your heating expenses-- or another $10 per month, according to the California Energy Commission.

3. Ditch the second refrigerator.

It might be time to finally get rid of that old refrigerator in the basement. Yes, it's a practical location to keep cold drinks-- however Energy Star research study reveals that fridges made before 1993 can add $100 a year to your electrical bill. Is it worth it?

4. Lower the temperature on your hot water heater.

The U.S. Department of Energy approximates a water heating system set to 140ºF wastes from $36 to $61 every year in standby heat losses for storage hot water heater, and more than $400 in losses for demand-type hot water heater (also understood as tankless or rapid), which offer hot water as required. Lowering the temp to 120ºF must provide heating and cooling mississauga all the warm water you require while decreasing your energy bill, and slowing mineral buildup and deterioration in your hot water heater and pipes.

5. Insulate your hot water heater.

Putting an insulation blanket on your water heating unit tank, and insulating the first 6 feet of hot and cold water pipes will fume water to you quicker, states the Epa (EPA). That suggests you'll waste less water waiting on the tap to warm up.

6. Try cold suds.

Using the cold water setting on your washing device can decrease its energy usage by as much as 90%, according to Energy Star. Highlight: It still gets your clothing tidy.

7. Set up low-flow components.

Showering represent about 20% of household water usage-- or approximately 20 gallons of water per person each day, the EPA reports. Installing low-flow shower heads, faucets and toilets can reduce water consumption by 30% or more, according to the EPA.

8. Buy energy-efficient home appliances.

Energy Star-rated dishwashers and cleaning makers conserve numerous gallons of water per year, and use approximately a 3rd of the energy of less-efficient designs, Energy Star reports. Together they can cut your energy expense by more than $100 annually. Ask your water energy if it provides refunds to balance out the expense of effective components and devices.

9. Use Energy Star light bulbs.

Isn't it time you saw the light? Energy Star-certified light bulbs utilize 70% to 90% less energy than basic bulbs, and they last 10 to 25 times longer.

10. Fix the Drip.

It might appear like absolutely nothing now, however one drop of water per second in a leaking faucet can add up to 3,000 gallons in a year-- enough to take more than 180 showers, according to the EPA.

http://edition.cnn.com/search/?text=hvac