By: Frank Caliva, RESA’s National Spokesperson
The Retail Energy Supply Association (RESA) wishes you a Happy Earth Day. For over a half-century, we’ve taken this time to reflect on our stewardship of the world’s resources – including our energy consumption. There’s no better way to “go green” than to consider what we can do to manage our usage better (and potentially save some money too). In that spirit, RESA is pleased to offer these top five tips for being environmentally friendly with our energy use this Earth Day.
- Switch to energy-efficient LED lighting. Replacing incandescent bulbs with LEDs ones means big energy savings. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, LEDs use 75% less energy and last up to 25 times longer than incandescent ones (Bonus Points: take advantage of the spring weather to get some other bulbs working to reduce carbon emissions – flower bulbs!).
- Get your air conditioner ready for summer. Before the cool days of spring make way for the summer heat, remember that your air conditionerneeds routine maintenance to ensure optimal performance. For example, replacing a dirty filter can lower your air conditioner’s energy consumption by up to 15%. Set a calendar reminder to change your air filters every three to six months (Bonus Point: help your A/C out by keeping your window blinds or curtains closed during the warmer parts of the day).
- Smarten up your thermostat. The smaller the difference between the outside temperature and the thermostat in your house, the less energy you will consume to heat and cool your home. Consider investing in a smart thermostat, which can give you more control over when and how much to raise or lower the temperature inside (Bonus Point: install smart surge protectors, power strips, and outlets to ensure that devices aren’t using electricity even when they appear to be turned off).
- Keep your energy in and the weather out. Weatherization is an effective way to use power in your home efficiently. Sealing the air leaks around your doors, windows, vents, and other areas can save up to 20% of your home’s energy use (Bonus Points: remember there’s a light in the attic – and insulation too. Proper insulation helps your HVAC system work more efficiently. And while you’re up there, don’t forget to swap your existing light bulbs for LEDs).
- Choose your energy wisely. In many states, you have the opportunity to select an energy supplier. Are you thinking about renewable energy but trying to figure out where to start? You can explore the options available to customers in your state by visiting RESA’s Energy Choice 101 webpage. (Bonus Point: Choice isn’t just for electricity. Your state may also allow you to choose your natural gas supplier – take a look.)
Whatever you choose, remember that making good energy decisions isn’t just for one day – these tips can help you manage your energy usage year-round, save money, and do your part to keep the Earth green for future generations.
