Written on: April 11, 2022
With prices of everything going up lately, you’re probably like us and looking for ways to cut your expenses.
We’ve put together five ways to stop energy costs from taking such a big bite out of your wallet while keeping your home comfortable.
As we transition from heating to cooling our homes, make sure that your HVAC system can do its job properly and efficiently. Check the air filter once a month and change it as needed. Make sure vents aren’t obstructed by curtains or furniture so air from them can circulate freely.
Propane appliances are far more energy-efficient than comparable electric models. For example, a propane gas clothes dryer dries your clothing 25% faster than an electric dryer would. Propane water heaters not only heat more than twice the water of a comparable electric water heater in the same amount of time, but they do also it for about 30% less cost. You will save money on energy bills in the spring, summer, fall, and winter by installing new propane appliances to your home!
If your water heater is still set to the standard factory setting of 140°F, you are overpaying for hot water. Cut your water heating energy costs by up to 10% without losing a smidgen of comfort by lowering the temperature on your water heater to 120°F. This is also a safety precaution since 140° water increases the risk of scalding, especially for infants, children, and the elderly.
When the weather warms up, cooking in your kitchen makes your home warmer as well, which causes your A/C to turn on more often. This increases your energy expenses. On very warm days, don’t use the stove. Instead, prepare meals that don’t need to be cooked, like salads or sandwiches. Use small appliances like your slow cooker, multicooker, and toaster oven for cooking. These do not generate anywhere near the heat in the kitchen that a cooktop or oven does. Another way you can keep your kitchen and home cooler is by taking your cooking outside to your propane grill.
You have probably heard parents say, “Close the door! I’m not air-conditioning the whole neighborhood!”. When it comes to warm air getting into your home and forcing your A/C to work harder and more often, the drafts around your doors, windows, and exterior walls are the equivalent of leaving a window open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Using caulk, weatherstripping, and expanding foam to seal the gaps will keep your home not only cooler in the summer but warmer in the winter. Now is also an excellent time to insulate your house for year-round energy savings.
Need to upgrade propane appliances in your home? Contact Johnny Prescott and we’ll get to work for you!
