It sounds simple, but summer is a great time to get back to the basics. Instead of investing a lot of money into large upgrades, there are very easy things you can do to help manage your energy costs.
First, take control of your thermostat. Heating and cooling account for about 50 percent of your annual energy costs – and we all know how hot and humid our South Carolina summers can be! We recommend setting your thermostat to 78 degrees or higher in the summer. Each degree lower than the recommended setting can significantly increase your cooling costs in summer. Also remember, when you’re away on summer vacation, consider bumping your thermostat up several degrees above 78 to maximize efficiency while you’re away.
Second, think about your water heater – it accounts for about 14 percent of your annual energy costs. Be sure your water heater is set to 120˚F or lower. Since heating the water in your home is such a significant part of your bill, it is also important to visually inspect your water heater from time to time for any leaks, rust or other abnormalities.
Here are some more simple tips:
- Check your HVAC filters monthly and replace them when they’re dirty
- Unplug any electronics that are not in use
- Caulk windows and weather strip exterior doors where necessary
Saving energy doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Get back to the basics! For more information and additional energy saving tips, please visit www.sceg.com/energytips.
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