Avoid Peak Hours to Save Electricity

Did you know that utility providers often have different rates based on the time of day?

Most utility providers charge a premium for electricity between noon and 6 PM, when businesses are operating at maximum capacity.

Additionally, during the summer air conditioners and refrigerators are in high gear.

A great way to save money is by reducing your usage, particularly if you aren't at home during the day. Turning your refrigerator to a lower setting, turning the air conditioning down, and doublecheck to make sure all energy using equipment is turned off before you leave for work will save you substantially more during the day then at night.

Save tasks for off-peak hours such as running your dishwasher, washer, dryer and other items that use high amounts of power for short durations.

Smart Landscaping Leads to Energy-Saving

Planting the right trees or shrubbery can beautify the outside of your home and, if strategically done, the proper landscaping can also save energy.

Creating natural shade and wind breaks could potentially reduce overall energy consumption by up to 30%. As little as three mature trees, placed properly, will save hundreds of dollars annually.

Keeping Cool

Reduce cooling costs in the summer:

• Deciduous trees (ones that lose their leaves) create shade. Use these along east and west walls.
• Shade outdoor air conditioner to increase energy efficiency.
• Fences and shrubs can direct airflow into the home, creating natural ventilation.
• Light colored landscaping can reflect heat away from the home.

Keeping Warm

Reduce heating costs and energy usage in the winter.

• Evergreens make effective windbreaks all year round. Reduce wind flow around your property.
• Shield your home from the wind with dense shrubbery, creating natural insulation.
• Dark colored landscaping will absorb heat in winter, some of which will be transferred into the home.

Don't cost yourself money by making landscaping mistakes.

While trees and shrubs can lead the energy savings, planting them too close to air vents may cause your heating and cooling systems to operate less efficiently. When planting contact your utility company to avoid contact with underground pipes or wires. Remember to consider growth mature tree branches can interact with utility wires or dense roots can damage underground services. Ultimately, your goal is to save energy and money.

Stay Away from Solar Gain

During the summer, keep the window coverings closed during the day to prevent solar gain, which will increase the temperature in your home. If you really enjoy the view, open your curtains in the early morning at breakfast and late at night during dinner.

Help Heat Your Home Without Electricity

During the cooler seasons, keep the draperies and shades on your south-facing windows open during the day to allow the sunlight to enter your home and closed at night to reduce the chill you may feel from cold windows.