Kickstand

Smart Ideas:

• Become more aware of your home energy use–where are my energy dollars going?  Out the windows?  Up the chimney?  To the electric utility?
• Use technology to save money and energy without sacrificing comfort
• Know your most obvious energy weak spots

Research Insight:

People who tried programmable thermostats in our research found them to be cheap, effective and easy to use.  No down side, only energy and cost savings.

Smart Living Jumpstarts:

• Seal windows and doors—cheap, easy, effective
• Install programmable thermostats and other energy management/automation technology
• Diversify your lighting mix. Use daylight whenever possible and mix CFLs and LEDs to balance personal preferences with conservation benefits.
• Reduce phantom power loads – use power strips and unplug gadgets

Factoids:

• Phantom energy loss accounts for 10% of your yearly power bill
• Save 10% a year on heating by turning down thermostat 10 degrees for 8 hours a day