The BIGGEST energy wasters in your home
Small changes, like replacing air filters, could shave $700 a year from your bill.
Energy Wasters in Your Home
by Jeanine Skowronski
Thursday, 3:42PM
Your Energy Bill Breakdown
Energy doesn't come cheap.
According to Maria Vargas, spokesperson for EnergyStar, a division of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), energy bills can differ
depending on the size and location on your home, but the average household spends $2,200 a year. The good news is these costs can be
cut dramatically.
Energy Star, a program started in 1992 to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lower energy costs for consumers, offers suggestions
for how to reduce your annual electric costs by a third. In other words, you can save about $700 a year on electricity. Last year, Vargas points
out, Americans saved about $17 billion on energy bills and reduced green house gas emissions by nearly the equivalent of 30 million cars.
Using data compiled by EnergyStar, MainStreet breaks down your energy bill and identifies the biggest wasters to help you save money (and
reduce greenhouse gas emissions!) this winter.
Small changes, like replacing air filters, could shave $700 a year from your bill.
Energy Wasters in Your Home
by Jeanine Skowronski
Thursday, 3:42PM
Your Energy Bill Breakdown
Energy doesn't come cheap.
According to Maria Vargas, spokesperson for EnergyStar, a division of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), energy bills can differ
depending on the size and location on your home, but the average household spends $2,200 a year. The good news is these costs can be
cut dramatically.
Energy Star, a program started in 1992 to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lower energy costs for consumers, offers suggestions
for how to reduce your annual electric costs by a third. In other words, you can save about $700 a year on electricity. Last year, Vargas points
out, Americans saved about $17 billion on energy bills and reduced green house gas emissions by nearly the equivalent of 30 million cars.
Using data compiled by EnergyStar, MainStreet breaks down your energy bill and identifies the biggest wasters to help you save money (and
reduce greenhouse gas emissions!) this winter.
HVAC Systems
"If you really want to cut back on your energy use, you need to focus on heating and cooling your home," Vargas
says. That's because these two categories combined account for 46% of your overall electric bill. While most
homeowners can't afford a complete overhaul of their homes' heating, ventilating and air-conditioning (HVAC)
systems, some changes can increase energy efficiency and include:
• Installing a programmable thermostat, which lets you set temperatures for specific times of day. These devices
can save about $180 each year on energy costs.
• Change air filters regularly. The harder your HVAC unit has to work, the more energy it eats away. Filters
should really be changed out monthly, especially during the summer and winter months when the HVAC unit has
a heavy workload. If you find this tedious, EnergyStar suggests changing filters a minimum of every three
months.
• Seal your heating and cooling ducts, especially those running through the attic, crawlspace, unheated
basement or garage, as that improves the efficiency of your HVAC unit by as much as 20%.
says. That's because these two categories combined account for 46% of your overall electric bill. While most
homeowners can't afford a complete overhaul of their homes' heating, ventilating and air-conditioning (HVAC)
systems, some changes can increase energy efficiency and include:
• Installing a programmable thermostat, which lets you set temperatures for specific times of day. These devices
can save about $180 each year on energy costs.
• Change air filters regularly. The harder your HVAC unit has to work, the more energy it eats away. Filters
should really be changed out monthly, especially during the summer and winter months when the HVAC unit has
a heavy workload. If you find this tedious, EnergyStar suggests changing filters a minimum of every three
months.
• Seal your heating and cooling ducts, especially those running through the attic, crawlspace, unheated
basement or garage, as that improves the efficiency of your HVAC unit by as much as 20%.
Water Heater
According to EnergyStar, your water heating system accounts for 14% of your energy bill. Monetarily speaking,
the average household spends $400-$600 per year on water heating. To reduce this expense, lower standby
losses, such as heat that escapes the water heater and seeps into the surrounding basement area, as well as
the amount of hot water you use in your home.
When set too high, or at 140 degrees Fahrenheit, your water heater can waste anywhere from $36 to $61
annually in standby heat losses, and more than $400 thanks to overall consumption. Lower that expense by
bringing the heater's thermostat to 120 degrees Fahrenheit or below.
the average household spends $400-$600 per year on water heating. To reduce this expense, lower standby
losses, such as heat that escapes the water heater and seeps into the surrounding basement area, as well as
the amount of hot water you use in your home.
When set too high, or at 140 degrees Fahrenheit, your water heater can waste anywhere from $36 to $61
annually in standby heat losses, and more than $400 thanks to overall consumption. Lower that expense by
bringing the heater's thermostat to 120 degrees Fahrenheit or below.
Lights Out
In EnergyStar's breakdown, lighting accounts for 12% of bill, but it also represents one of the easiest fixes. In
fact, by simply replacing five of your standard incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs, you
can save $70 a year.
fact, by simply replacing five of your standard incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs, you
can save $70 a year.
Hot Stuff
Appliances only account for 13% of electric bills, so naturally, most people don't upgrade to an energy efficient
toaster. Still, if you are committed to reducing the amount of energy you use, you need to focus on larger
appliances that use a heat coil, such as a refrigerator or washer and dryer. To do that, make sure that your
fridge's filters are cleaned regularly, and consider using only cold water to wash laundry loads. That can save
$30 to $40 each year.
toaster. Still, if you are committed to reducing the amount of energy you use, you need to focus on larger
appliances that use a heat coil, such as a refrigerator or washer and dryer. To do that, make sure that your
fridge's filters are cleaned regularly, and consider using only cold water to wash laundry loads. That can save
$30 to $40 each year.
But don't be too stingy, Vargas says. Replacing a major appliance, like a refrigerator that is 10 to 15 years old, may help you save in the long
term as new technology is constantly subject to federal standards that adjust every year.
term as new technology is constantly subject to federal standards that adjust every year.
Energy Vampires
Any appliance or device that sucks up energy when it's plugged in, despite being turned off, is one of these
money-draining culprits. According to EnergyStar, this includes most electronic devices, especially those that
use some sort of display, like a television, laptop or DVD player.
Slaying energy vampires won't lower your energy bill significantly — electronics only account for about 4% of the
total cost — but it's important to keep them in mind, as they consume 75% of the electricity used to power home
electronics and appliances.
money-draining culprits. According to EnergyStar, this includes most electronic devices, especially those that
use some sort of display, like a television, laptop or DVD player.
Slaying energy vampires won't lower your energy bill significantly — electronics only account for about 4% of the
total cost — but it's important to keep them in mind, as they consume 75% of the electricity used to power home
electronics and appliances.
Powering Down
The best way to eliminate this phantom menace is not only to turn energy vampires off, but unplug them. This
may be easier said than done, but unplugging a laptop in between uses isn't particularly problematic. However,
doing so with your television would require you to wait for the cable to reboot every time you wanted to watch a
program.
As an alternative, EnergyStar suggests plugging your television and/or DVD player into a power strip and then
turning that off when your television is in stand-by mode. Put your computers on sleep mode, or manually turn off
the monitor inbetween visits, as opposed to utilizing a screen saver, which, contrary to popular belief, does not
reduce energy output. Also, make sure you unplug a battery charger of adapter as it continues to draw energy
even when the product no longer needs it.
may be easier said than done, but unplugging a laptop in between uses isn't particularly problematic. However,
doing so with your television would require you to wait for the cable to reboot every time you wanted to watch a
program.
As an alternative, EnergyStar suggests plugging your television and/or DVD player into a power strip and then
turning that off when your television is in stand-by mode. Put your computers on sleep mode, or manually turn off
the monitor inbetween visits, as opposed to utilizing a screen saver, which, contrary to popular belief, does not
reduce energy output. Also, make sure you unplug a battery charger of adapter as it continues to draw energy
even when the product no longer needs it.
Put Stand By on Stand by
The final 11% of your electric bill comprises devices that don't exactly fit into any particular category. This
includes dehumidifiers, external power adapters and video game consoles, which are all considered energy
vampires.
An Xbox 360, for example, if left on the draws approximately 1,000 kWh/yr. The PS3 draws 1,300 kWh/yr.
According to EnergyStar, these values drop dramatically when users routinely turn the device off after use,
lowering annual energy levels down to 110 and 120 kWh/yr, respectively. Since it costs about 12 cents per
kWh/yr in the average residential home in the U.S., it costs $120 if to leave your Xbox plugged in for the entire
year.
To lower these costs, unplug the devices when you are not playing and only resort to stand-by mode as, well, a
stand-by. Energy Star estimates that stand-by power accounts for more than 100 billion kilowatt hours (kWh) of
annual U.S. electricity consumption, and $11 billion in annual energy costs.
includes dehumidifiers, external power adapters and video game consoles, which are all considered energy
vampires.
An Xbox 360, for example, if left on the draws approximately 1,000 kWh/yr. The PS3 draws 1,300 kWh/yr.
According to EnergyStar, these values drop dramatically when users routinely turn the device off after use,
lowering annual energy levels down to 110 and 120 kWh/yr, respectively. Since it costs about 12 cents per
kWh/yr in the average residential home in the U.S., it costs $120 if to leave your Xbox plugged in for the entire
year.
To lower these costs, unplug the devices when you are not playing and only resort to stand-by mode as, well, a
stand-by. Energy Star estimates that stand-by power accounts for more than 100 billion kilowatt hours (kWh) of
annual U.S. electricity consumption, and $11 billion in annual energy costs.
Why Choose Baltimore, Maryland Electricians Snapper Electric?
|
| You will never be misled or hassled with hidden fees. |
| For our no hassle price quote call us today (410) 808-4215 |
| We Also Offer 24-Hour Emergency Service |
| (410) 808-4215 |
Baltimore, Maryland Electricians / Contractor
NOW
CALL
| (410) 808-4215 |
 |  |  |  |  |
| "Check-Out Our *customer service beyond expectation Guarantee*!" |
| ©Snapper Electric Baltimore Maryland, Electricians |
| Serving the following locations: Baltimore, Maryland, Electricians, Lutherville,Timonium, Hunt Vally, Essex, Parkville, Perry Hall, Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Harford County MD, Bel Air, Aberdeen, Edgewood, Joppa, Joppatowne, Abingdon, Forest Hill, Fallston and Churchville Maryland. |
How To Hire A Good and Honest Baltimore, Maryland Electrician An electrician is someone who specializes in the wiring and repair of electrical mechanisms. Most people will rarely need the services of an electrician, but when it is necessary choosing the right one is very important. For home use, electricians are typically needed to re-wire or repair existing systems. They are also needed for construction, including additions and remodels, to place the electrical outlets and lighting. Before deciding on an electrician, determine the scope of work. Be as detailed as possible so you can determine the needs for the project. Minor repair work can often be completed by an electrician who is less expensive and may not have a lot of experience. However, for major repairs, remodels, new construction, and for long-term dependability it is imperative to get a skilled tradesman. Improper wiring can be very dangerous and can lead to fires, putting everyone at risk. Get recommendations for an electrician (CLICK HERE For Angie's List) before hiring one. Choose a few to get estimates on your project and compare all of them. Talk with each person to evaluate their experience and expertise. Have them walk through your project with you so you can understand what needs to be done, how it will be accomplished, how long it will take and the cost. An electrician should be licensed and carry valid insurance. Verify that both are active and in good standing before starting a job. Damage done can be severe with improper wiring so this is very important. If an electrician can not provide you with both, do not hire them. There is too much at stake. Get copies of their license and insurance certificate. Ask the electrician about their experience level. An electrical company that has been in business for a long time will likely be a better choice than one that is just starting out. New businesses may offer price reductions to help them establish a client list and references. If opting for a new business, check that the electrician who is working on the job has significant experience with the type of work required. Request references and check them. Maryland Electricians who have happy customers will do a good job for you. Choose the electrician who has the best combination of price and experience, and with whom you felt most comfortable. Get the project specifications in writing so you have a detailed accounting of the job, the costs, and time for completion. This will help protect you if anything goes wrong. |
Harford and Baltimore County, Maryland, Electrician
If you’re about to embark on home or commercial improvements involving ceiling fans,
general remodeling, lighting, and/or kitchen or bath remodeling, and live in the Baltimore-Washington Metropolitan Area, you’ll definitely need the services of Harford
and Baltimore County, Maryland electricians. And not just any electricians, ones that are board certified and offer a customer satisfaction guarantee.
But how would you determine if such professional services are needed? Here’s a tip: if a certain appliance repeatedly trips a circuit breaker, blows a fuse, or gives
you a shock – have it unplugged and repaired by a licensed electrician as soon as possible.
Oftentimes we may not realize that electrical jobs, small and large, vitally need professional electricians in order to avoid an electrical fire or another disaster from
energized circuit conductors or stray voltage from system faults. So many weekend warriors make the mistake of fixing a bit of wiring or try their hand at an electrical
system update when they could actually be placing their house and home (let alone business) in jeopardy. The job of an electrician is a regulated trade for safety
reasons due to the hazards of working with electricity, requiring testing, registration or licensing which is government controlled.
Qualified Harford and Baltimore County, Maryland electricians should be counted on to test and install fresh batteries or working smoke detectors in your home
without deeming the task too small. And these same drug-tested and background checked personnel can be trusted to be around your family, pets and possessions
to perform more detailed tasks such as: electrical, lighting, kitchen remodels, room addition wiring, pool and spa wiring, club basement remodels, electrical system
upgrades, generator sales, ceiling fan installations, under-cabinet and outdoor lighting, surge arrester installation, switch installation or replacement, recessed/can
lighting, pendant lighting, breaker upgrades and more.
Should you decide upon using the services of professional and fully trained electricians, it’s best if they arrive to your location in a fully stocked truck, ready to get the
job done without multiple trips to the supply house. A free quote is also a plus as you’ll benefit from Harford and Baltimore County, Maryland electricians who are fully
equipped to manage your electrical requirements at every level at affordable pricing.
Of course, getting your electrical issues resolved quickly can lessen your project anxiety. As will 24-hour emergency service. So look for electricians offering those
customer service perks. And when it comes to energy conservation, knowing what and what not to do when it come to energy wasters, can save you hundreds of
dollars per year. And who wouldn’t welcome that?
So, for any present or future commercial or home electrical needs, hold yourself to higher safety standards with licensed, experienced and insured Harford and
Baltimore County, Maryland electricians.
If you’re about to embark on home or commercial improvements involving ceiling fans,
general remodeling, lighting, and/or kitchen or bath remodeling, and live in the Baltimore-Washington Metropolitan Area, you’ll definitely need the services of Harford
and Baltimore County, Maryland electricians. And not just any electricians, ones that are board certified and offer a customer satisfaction guarantee.
But how would you determine if such professional services are needed? Here’s a tip: if a certain appliance repeatedly trips a circuit breaker, blows a fuse, or gives
you a shock – have it unplugged and repaired by a licensed electrician as soon as possible.
Oftentimes we may not realize that electrical jobs, small and large, vitally need professional electricians in order to avoid an electrical fire or another disaster from
energized circuit conductors or stray voltage from system faults. So many weekend warriors make the mistake of fixing a bit of wiring or try their hand at an electrical
system update when they could actually be placing their house and home (let alone business) in jeopardy. The job of an electrician is a regulated trade for safety
reasons due to the hazards of working with electricity, requiring testing, registration or licensing which is government controlled.
Qualified Harford and Baltimore County, Maryland electricians should be counted on to test and install fresh batteries or working smoke detectors in your home
without deeming the task too small. And these same drug-tested and background checked personnel can be trusted to be around your family, pets and possessions
to perform more detailed tasks such as: electrical, lighting, kitchen remodels, room addition wiring, pool and spa wiring, club basement remodels, electrical system
upgrades, generator sales, ceiling fan installations, under-cabinet and outdoor lighting, surge arrester installation, switch installation or replacement, recessed/can
lighting, pendant lighting, breaker upgrades and more.
Should you decide upon using the services of professional and fully trained electricians, it’s best if they arrive to your location in a fully stocked truck, ready to get the
job done without multiple trips to the supply house. A free quote is also a plus as you’ll benefit from Harford and Baltimore County, Maryland electricians who are fully
equipped to manage your electrical requirements at every level at affordable pricing.
Of course, getting your electrical issues resolved quickly can lessen your project anxiety. As will 24-hour emergency service. So look for electricians offering those
customer service perks. And when it comes to energy conservation, knowing what and what not to do when it come to energy wasters, can save you hundreds of
dollars per year. And who wouldn’t welcome that?
So, for any present or future commercial or home electrical needs, hold yourself to higher safety standards with licensed, experienced and insured Harford and
Baltimore County, Maryland electricians.