PowerHouse Tip of the Month
May Tip of the Month: Get your outdoor space ready
Summer’s almost here. It’s the perfect time to prep your outdoor space. There are plenty of opportunities to save energy as you beautify your yard, deck, porch, stoop or garden. A few thoughtful upgrades and adjustments will make for a more pleasant, comfy and energy-efficient environment for you to spend sunny days and pleasant nights.
Lighting
- Upgrade your outdoor lighting. Consider LEDs for your outdoor fixtures and string lights. They use significantly less energy than traditional bulbs and last much longer. They give off very little heat, which you’ll appreciate on muggy Midwestern evenings. To save even more, use motion sensors or timers so they’re only on when needed.
- Illuminate your garden and pathways with solar-powered lights. These charge during the day to shine all night – no outlet required.
Landscaping
- Choose smart landscaping. Plant trees and shrubs strategically to naturally shade your home and reduce the need for air conditioning during hot months. Consider native plants that require less water and maintenance to further lower outdoor energy use.
- Install outdoor shade structures. Pergolas or shade sails can help keep your outdoor areas cooler and reduce the need for air conditioning inside. You can also install awnings over windows and doors.
- Add reflective window films. These block out harmful UV rays and reduce heat gain.
Efficient practices
- Seal air leaks. Use weatherstripping or caulk to close gaps that let cool air out and hot air in. Seal leaks around doors, windows and other openings.
- Dry clothes on a clothesline. Instead of using a dryer, hang your clothes outside to dry. It saves energy and it’s gentler on fabrics.
- Invest in energy-efficient appliances. When you purchase outdoor appliances like grills or refrigerators, look for energy-efficient models. If you have a pool, a variable-speed pump uses significantly less energy than traditional pumps, especially on lower speeds.
- Create an energy-efficient gathering space. Enjoy hosting friends and family without excessive energy use. When possible, make use of natural lighting and ventilation to keep the space comfy. On chilly nights, consider a fire pit for warmth and ambiance. (Remember never to install a fire pit over a utility line. Visit call811.com before you dig.)
These tips can create an inviting outdoor atmosphere and help manage energy costs. You’ll enjoy the beauty of your yard and the company of friends and family even more when you know you’ve kept your energy consumption low.
April Tip of the Month: Time to tune up your air conditioner
With warmer weather on the horizon, it's a great idea to make sure your air conditioner runs smoothly. Regular maintenance could lower your system’s energy use up to 15%.
A tuneup can help manage your bills, extend the life of your equipment and identify issues before they become more expensive unexpected repairs.
During a tuneup, a professional will:
- Clean the coils.
- Check refrigerant levels.
- Replace the air filter.
- Inspect the ductwork.
- Make sure all components work safely.
These steps help prevent breakdowns and keep your system running efficiently. Plus, a well-maintained air conditioner can improve indoor air quality and make your home more comfortable.
Stay cool and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your air conditioner is ready to handle the heat.
Learn more about the benefits of a tuneup.
March Tip of the Month: Check out My Account
World Energy Efficiency Day is this month. Do you know how much energy you use?
Find out with My Account, a great online tool to learn all about how your home uses energy. You can track your usage by hour, day or month. You can set up alerts to let you know when you've used a certain amount. Plus, you can discover ways to use less.
Find the app on the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.
February Tip of the Month: Show your pet some energy-saving love
We all deserve a little extra love this month, including our pets. Here are some fun energy-saving ways to show them you care.
- Create a comfy corner: For cats, dogs and some other mammals, you can use blankets, pet beds and even old sweaters to make a snug spot. Keep it away from drafts and cold floors for maximum comfort.
- Use LED night-lights for a cozy atmosphere: Most pets see well in the dark, but some, especially dogs, feel more at ease with a gentle glow. If this is your pet, opt for an energy-efficient LED night-light.
- Keep them active with interactive toys: Mentally stimulate and entertain your pets with fun toys. Toys keep them engaged and help them get some exercise, and for warm-blooded pets, it’ll warm them up without turning up the heat.
These are just a few ways to show your pets some love the energy-efficient way.