Do you feel a change in the air? Tuesday, March 19 is the official grand entrance of spring. Say goodbye to what Floridians call “winter cold” and embrace the warmth of a new season. And it's not just about flowers blooming; it's your chance to kick off a savings spree! Let's make saving energy and money as cool as the spring breeze.
Here are 10 simple energy-saving tips you can do to improve the energy efficiency and comfort of your home as warmer temperatures arrive:
- Service your air conditioner. Easy maintenance such as routinely replacing or cleaning air filters can lower your cooling system’s energy consumption by up to 15 percent. Also, the first day of spring could serve as a reminder to check your air conditioner’s evaporator coil, which should be cleaned annually to ensure the system is performing at optimal levels. Thinking about installing a high-efficiency system? Check out our heating and cooling rebate.
- Install and set a programmable thermostat. When cooling, every degree below 78 will increase the air conditioning portion of your electric bill by about 7 percent. Use a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust your settings when you’re at work, school or away for an extended period. Tampa Electric offers a smart thermostat rebate.
- Open windows. Opening windows creates a cross-wise breeze, allowing you to naturally cool your home without switching on air conditioners. This is an ideal tactic in spring when temperatures are mild.
- Use ceiling fans. Cooling your home with ceiling fans will allow you to raise your thermostat four degrees. This can help lower your electricity bills without sacrificing overall comfort.
- Cook outside. On warmer spring days, keep the heat out of your home by using an outdoor grill instead of indoor ovens.
- Install window treatments. Energy-efficient window treatments or coverings such as blinds, shades and films can slash heat gain when temperatures rise. They not only improve the look of your home but also reduce energy costs.
- Caulk air leaks. Using low-cost caulk to seal cracks and openings in your home keeps warm air out -- and cash in your wallet.
- Reduce energy for water heating. Take simple steps – like lowering your water heater’s temperature and installing low-flow showerheads – to reduce your water heating bills.
- Seal ducts. Air loss through ducts can lead to high electricity costs, accounting for nearly 20 percent of a cooling system’s energy consumption. Sealing and insulating ducts can go a long way toward lowering your electricity bills. Our ductwork program is a cost-effective way to get this done.
- Complete a Tampa Electric Energy Audit. This might be the most important tip! Continue your journey to energy savings by completing an online energy audit or schedule an in-home energy audit by calling 813-275-3909. Both energy audits are free and will help you pinpoint areas where you can save energy and money.
The energy experts at Tampa Electric are all about energy savings. That’s why we offer more energy-saving programs than any other utility in the state. Visit our Save Energy section to learn more and participate.
