23 Jan 5 Tips to Lower Utility Costs
If you live in an area that sees lots of heat, cold, or both, you might wince when you get your utility bills. While certain climates make it hard to keep utility costs low, there are tips that Highlands Ranch Property Managers suggests to lower your bills.
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1. Windows
Windows play a large role in your overall energy costs. Older windows are not as energy efficient because they lack modern day insulation features. This is especially true of single pane windows which virtually have no insulation at all. Newer windows are double and sometimes triple-paned which helps keep the cold out and the heat in your Highlands Ranch Rental Home when it’s wintertime.
2. Energy Efficient Appliances
If you’re moving into a new house, or have the money to do so, consider buying energy efficient appliances. There is a certification called energy star that you should look for when shopping. These appliances will probably cost more up front, but will save you in the long run. You can also feel good about doing your part to help prevent global climate change. Ask about including energy efficient appliances in your Highlands Ranch Rental Property.
3. Upgrade Your Lighting
This is a very easy way to cut back on your electric usage. As everyone that hasn’t been living under a rock for the past decade knows, compact fluorescent lights (CFL) are starting to replace incandescent bulbs as the dominant residential light. This is because about 90% of the electric that goes into an incandescent bulb is wasted because it is given off as heat, rather than light. This chart compares electric use between the two, but a 23 watt CFL bulb gives off about the same amount of light as a 100 watt incandescent bulb. Consider asking a Highlands Ranch Property Management Company about upgrading to these lights.
4. Get a Programmable Thermostat
Because you don’t have the same temperature control needs at all times of the day, it doesn’t make much sense to keep your house at a constant temperature. While you can adjust a normal thermostat to save you money and use less energy, using a programmable thermostat makes it easier. Some newer models are even controllable via smartphones. Use this to turn down the temperature while you are sleeping or away from your home.
5. Change Your Furnace Filter Regularly
Furnaces do not work nearly as efficiently if they have a dirty, clogged filter. This is because your furnace has to work harder to pull the same amount of air through the system. As a Highlands Ranch Property Management company, we suggested our tenants check their furnace filters monthly and change them a minimum of once every three months. Doing this has the added bonus of reducing the amount of allergens in the air.
Consider these tips to save yourself some money. After all, isn’t there something else you’re rather spend that money on?
