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Tips and Tricks: Small Changes = Big Savings

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average household spends $1,600 a year on utilities. By making small changes, you can enjoy significant savings on your energy bill while wasting less energy. "Our members win twice by conserving energy," says Gary Connett, Director of Demand Side Management and Member Services at Great River Energy. "The savings show up on their next bill and continue into the future by delaying the need to build new generation facilities."

Here are some simple ways to reduce energy use and lower your bills:

  1. Turn off your computer. Contrary to popular belief, you won't shorten the life of your computer by turning it on and off, but you will save energy. When you leave the room, also remember to turn off the light.
  2. Turn your water heater down to 120 degrees or the "normal" setting, and insulate exposed hot water pipes.
  3. Use the microwave. A microwave uses two-thirds less energy than a regular oven. Because it doesn't emit heat into your kitchen, your air conditioner won't work as hard on hot summer days.
  4. Fill the dishwasher or clothes washer. Washing a full load saves water and the energy needed to heat the water. Plus, you'll use less laundry or dishwashing detergent.
  5. Lower your air conditioner by one degree. This will decrease your energy use by 3 percent and you may not even notice the difference.
  6. Close shades in summer; open them in winter. Black-out blinds or curtains can provide maximum protection from the sun's strong summer rays. In the winter, make sure your windows are sealed from drafts while letting in as much light and heat as you can.
  7. Close the refrigerator door. Repeatedly opening and closing the refrigerator door, or holding it open while you decide on a snack, lets out the cold air. Your refrigerator will use even more electricity to replace the chill in its air.
  8. Fix leaks to avoid wasting water. Conserving water is generally an eco-friendly move, but if you're leaking warm or hot water, your water heater may be working overtime and consuming energy unnecessarily.

Visit the U.S. Department of Energy Site for more energy saving tips.