As the holiday season approaches, many consumers are looking for ways to save money. One effective strategy is to invest in energy-efficient products, which can help reduce electric bills during the holidays and beyond.
Lighting is a significant contributor to household electricity use, accounting for about 15% of consumption according to the Department of Energy. Switching from traditional incandescent bulbs to LED lightbulbs can cut energy use by up to 90%, and these bulbs have a longer lifespan.
Another area where savings can be realized is through furnace maintenance. Dirty filters force furnaces to work harder, consuming more energy. It's recommended that filters be changed every three months, making Black Friday an opportune time to purchase them in bulk.
Unused appliances and electronics continue to draw power when plugged in, leading to unnecessary costs. Advanced power strips can mitigate this issue by automatically cutting off power when devices are not in use.
Heating and cooling account for about half of a home's electric bill, averaging over $900 annually. Programmable or smart thermostats offer better control over temperature settings and often come with discounts during Black Friday sales.
Air leaks are responsible for 25-40% of heating and cooling energy usage in typical homes. Weatherstripping, caulk, and foam spray can seal these leaks effectively, enhancing both energy efficiency and comfort.
For those eyeing larger purchases like appliances or electronics, ENERGY STAR® labeled products meet stringent efficiency standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency. These products include televisions, appliances, ceiling fans, and light bulbs. Choosing ENERGY STAR items can lead to annual savings of approximately $450 on electric bills.
For additional tips on saving energy and money, visit www.firstenergycorp.com/saveenergy.
Brooke Conlan can be contacted at 330-807-7564 for further information.