Spring
Goodbye winter, hello spring! In Minnesota, we especially feel a sense of renewal and growth during the spring. Why not capitalize on that feeling and launch your year-round strategy for conserving energy?
Here are a few tips for spring-time energy savings:
- Check your home for any winter damage to windows, caulking or sealing.
- Install outdoor motion sensor lights and make sure you are using energy efficient lighting such as compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs).
- Gear up for the warm weather ahead by tuning up or servicing your air conditioner.
- Purchase mobile fans or consider installing a ceiling fan to improve the efficiency of or decrease the need for your air conditioner – moving air feels cooler.
- Start your spring -cleaning by dusting the condenser coils on your refrigerator and freezer.
* Thinking of building or remodeling? Consider adding energy efficiency and ENERGY STAR®/Triple E standards into your design.
Summer
At last, cabin days, barbecues, swimming and … major energy consumption. As the temperature climbs higher so does the amount of energy we use. Air conditioners, dehumidifiers, and swimming pools all add to the amount of energy we consume.
Here are a few tips for saving energy in the summer:
- Consider using a slow cooker or microwave instead of the stove.
- Set the air conditioning thermostat at 78 degrees or higher.
- Put your pool filter on a timer or turn it off overnight.
- Use curtains, blinds, or shades to keep the sunshine out and the cool air in.
- Make sure your attic is ventilated—proper ventilation reduces temperatures and prevents moisture buildup.
* Remember to look for the ENERGY STAR® label when purchasing new appliances.
Fall
The leaves are changing and the air is crisp—the perfect weather to get your house ready for the winter ahead. The preparations you make now will greatly affect the efficiency of your home in the winter.
Here are a few tips for saving energy in the fall:
- Have your furnace serviced or tuned up.
- Add weather-stripping around windows and doors.
- Caulk around pipes where they meet walls and floors. Take care of caulking before the cold weather starts because many caulks will not cure at cold temperatures.
- Add or improve insulation.
- Make sure all of your light bulbs are energy efficient CFLs so you’re ready for those shorter days and longer nights.
* Schedule an energy audit with a Minnesota Power representative to understand how you are currently using energy and to receive recommendations on efficiency improvements.
Winter
Skiing, sliding, and staying warm by the fire—winter has arrived. The lower temperatures mean higher energy use. Here are a few tips for saving energy in the winter:
- Keep your curtains, blinds and shades open during the day to let the sun naturally warm your home. Close your curtains, blinds and shades at night to keep the heat in.
- Keep fireplace dampers closed when not in use.
- Keep your thermostat at 68 degrees during the day and 55 degrees at night.
- Use LED holiday lights.
- Change furnace filters regularly to keep it running efficiently.
* Looking for even more ways to save energy in your home? Visit our interactive home as system.
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