Oct. 2 was Energy Efficiency Day. Effectively increasing your energy efficiency involves more than just using less energy — it requires you becoming aware of how energy is used, where it’s wasted, in everyday life. The City of Asheville is committed to sustainability, and wants to share some tips on how you can save energy today and every day.
- Bring in sunlight. During daylight hours, switch off artificial lights and use windows and skylights to brighten your home.
- Set the thermostat. On warm days, setting a programmable thermostat to a higher setting when you are not at home can help reduce your energy costs by approximately 10 percent.
- Install window treatments. Energy-efficient window treatments or coverings such as blinds, shades and films can slash heat gain when temperatures rise. These devices 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.
- Seal ducts. Air loss through ducts can lead to high electricity costs, accounting for nearly 30 percent of a cooling system’s energy consumption. Sealing and insulating ducts can go a long way toward lowering your electricity bills.
The more energy-saving tips you tackle, the greater your chances of saving energy at home — and potentially saving more on your monthly energy bill as a result. For more information on how you can save energy at your home or business please visit https://bluehorizonsproject.com. The Blue Horizons Project is a collaboration between the City of Asheville, Buncombe County, and Duke Energy. Its role is to enlist public support and provide easy access to resources that allow everyone to be a part of creating a clean energy future.