Tips to Conserve Energy and Save Money Today
Living in Phoenix and other areas throughout the Valley of the Sun can run your energy bills sky high. This is especially true from springtime to fall when your AC is running 24/7. There are some energy conservation tips that many community associations recommend to residents that can save you money while being energy conscious.
Tune Up Your Air Conditioner
Springtime in the Phoenix area means things are about to get really hot and you need to be prepared. Have a qualified HVAC company check out your system to make sure all is well so that when you are ready to crank up that AC your home will be nice and cool. Having your air conditioner in good working order will allow it to run more efficiently, and that can mean a lower bill. Once your AC has been tuned up for the year, setting your thermostat between 60 and 70 is the general recommendation.
Do Laundry During Off Hours
Peak time for washing and drying laundry is the middle of the day. Too many appliances going at once has the potential to cause brownouts or blackouts. With the temperatures in the Phoenix area on a steady rise and the population continuing to grow, there is more of a chance of a blackout happening during peak hours. The best time to do laundry is approximately before 7:00 a.m. or after 7:00 p.m. This will help to save energy in your home and the grid serving the Valley in general. Your HOA management company might have some suggestions for the residents of your neighborhood.
Solar Panels
Having solar panels installed on your roof can save you thousands of dollars over the years you have them. Companies frequently offer discounts for installation or offer other money-saving options. Many new eco-friendly homes are being built with solar paneling so that homeowners can begin conserving energy and cutting costs right away. Talk to your homeowner association about the guidelines for having solar panels installed in your home.
Change Your Lightbulbs
Using energy-saving lightbulbs can save you money over the years. The life of LED bulbs and other bulbs made specially to conserve energy is usually longer than regular lightbulbs. Since they take less energy to light up your home, they will cost less in the long run. Using eco-friendly lightbulbs reduces your carbon footprint and is one of the easiest ways to conserve energy and save money.