5 Essential Energy Saving Tips for Any Hudson Valley Homeowner

Homeowners, renters, renters, pretty much everyone in the world wants to save money, right? Every time I get my electricity bill I don’t understand it and it never goes down. Feel the same

Here are a few things supposedly anyone can do in Central Hudson, which ones have you tried? I’ve already switched to the “new” lightbulbs and have the power strips that are supposed to keep the “vampire gadgets” from using energy / electricity when not in use, but here are a few more things to do (or to no longer do):

• Decrease the temperature of your water heater. Easy to do when your temperature readout is digital. The recommended temperature is 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
• If you’re looking to buy a new device, make sure it bears the energy saving logos.
• Wash clothes in cold water and use detergent specially formulated for washing in cold water. Also check that your washing machine is also “High Efficiency”. I didn’t know about my new washing machine, I also had to use ‘HE’ laundry soap. It only takes a few minutes to find out that HE is and is formulated for cold.
• Swap out your shower head for a low flow version. There are also those that have a switch so you can turn off the water if you get wet. While the water is off, you can soap it up and then turn the water back on to rinse off. This is also helpful if you are running a well pump electrically.
• Lock your windows. Seems easy doesn’t it? But the sealing strip should do its job better if the windows are not only closed, but also locked.

What change have you made lately that has helped lower your energy bills? Would you like to share some tips with us? Thank you in advance, and while my utility company may not thank you for helping me cut the bill, my budget will be very grateful.