Conserving energy and saving money go hand in hand. Here are some easy ways you can start saving money by reviewing and implementing energy efficiencies in your home:
INSTALL A PROGRAMMABLE THERMOSTAT. You can save energy and money on your monthly utility bills by using a programmable thermostat to adjust your home's temperature while you're away from the house.
SWITCH TO LED LIGHTING. Swapping out five lightbulbs to LEDs could save you more than $100 per year. These highly efficient bulbs provide the same amount of light while consuming 90 percent less power than incandescent bulbs.
UNPLUG YOUR CHARGERS. Remember to unplug your chargers from the wall when your phone or tablet is fully charged to reduce unnecessary electricity usage. Using a power strip is a quick and easy way to turn off televisions, video games, computers and other big electronics when not in use.
INSTALL LOW-FLOW DEVICES ON SHOWERS AND FAUCETS. Putting low-flow devices on your home's faucets will help you use less water, providing extra savings on your monthly bill. If you are an Oklahoma Natural Gas customer, you can request a free water conservation kit. Email waterkits@ong.com with your name, address and customer account number. Supplies are limited and will be distributed on a first come, first served basis.
UPGRADE YOUR INSULATION. Insulating and sealing outer walls, windows, doors, and attics can help reduce air leakage and keep home heating and cooling costs down.
ADOPT SMART KITCHEN HABITS. When using your cooktop, match the pot size to the burner size and keep the lid on the pot to shorten cooking time. You can also run your dishwasher only when full to reduce water usage, and let the dishes air dry instead of using the drying cycle.
CLEAN OR CHANGE FILTERS REGULARLY. A dirty furnace or air conditioner filter can slow down air flow and make the system work harder to keep you warm or cool. And be sure to have your furnace inspected at least once a year to ensure it's operating as safely and efficiently as possible.
Anyone can access more energy saving tips by trying the online energy calculators at Oklahoma Natural Gas. Click the menu button in the top right corner and under Customer Resources select “Energy Calculators."
