GREEN ELECTRICITY LIFESTYLE TIPS
HOME ENERGY EFFICIENCY TIPS FOR KNOXVILLE HOMEOWNERS
Looking for small changes that can both lower your energy bills and your environmental impact? Our Knoxville electricians are here to help you maximize your home’s energy efficiency with the following helpful tips. There are many ways to make your home more beautiful, comfortable, and safe while lowering your environmental impact. We believe that knowledge is powerful, and even small steps can make a difference. Our experts at Pat Murphy Electric are here to support our local green initiatives and are happy to share these home energy efficiency tips for your Knoxville residence!
Tips for Greener Electricity
Dimmer switches on incandescent and halogen lamps can lower energy usage. Our electricians in Knoxville can install dimmer switches in your home with ease!
A transient voltage surge suppressor on your panel can potentially extend the life of your home electronics. Call our certified electricians in Knoxville to learn more about surge suppressor installation.
Switch to compact fluorescent or LED bulbs for your Knoxville home’s non-dimmer fixtures and save up to 80% energy usage.
Small electronics and cell phones should be unplugged when not in use. Using a power strip can make this easier.
Motion-sensing switches make sure your lights are on only when you need them. Call our Knoxville electricians for installation.
The Energy Detective (TED) makes it easy to monitor your power usage.
We recommend setting your thermostat to 78 degrees in summer and 68 in winter. Use ceiling fans or fan-only settings during warm months, and reverse the fan direction during cold months.
It’s a great idea to have regular maintenance of your HVAC unit for cleaning, filter changes, and to address duct leaks. A qualified HVAC contractor can help.
Set your water heater to energy-saving mode or go tankless. Ask a qualified plumber for more info.
A full fridge and freezer are more efficient than those half-empty. Set these to energy-saving mode. Pull out to clean behind/vacuum dust every 6 months.
Consider using the air-dry option instead of heat dry. Run the dishwasher only when it’s full, during off-peak hours (typically between 7 p.m.-7 a.m.).
Open the oven door as little as possible while cooking. Use the correct size stovetop for your pot/pan. Cookware made from stainless, ceramic, or glass holds heat better.
Do your laundry during off-peak hours (between 7 p.m.-7 a.m.).
Tips for Environmentally Friendly Insulation
Look into non-tinted UV window film. Use thermal drapes or window treatments. Check with your local insulation contractor for more information.
Cover your water heater with an insulating blanket.
Check for potential air leaks by seeing where light comes through. Do this at night, with all the lights on in the house. Seal any cracks found.
Measure the depth of your attic insulation. Work with a local insulation contractor to make sure it’s at maximum allowance.
Tips for Saving Water
Make sure your toilets are not running. Call a local plumber to fix any running or leaking toilets.
Check that your faucets have aerator screens. Repair any dripping or leaking.
Switch to a low-flow or aerated shower head. These are easy to install.
Make sure your faucet isn’t leaking or dripping, and that it has an aerator screen.
Only run your dishwasher when it’s full and during off-peak hours.
Turn on your ice maker only when levels are low. Turn the auto sensor off.
Check your washer connections for any leaks and ensure the unit is draining thoroughly.
Check for any leaks in your water heater. Consider going tankless.
By following these home energy efficiency tips in your Knoxville-area home, you can lower your energy use and save money on electric bills! Contact us today to schedule your service appointment!
