Energy Saving Tips
- Energy Saving Tips
Safety and Energy Efficiency Tips for Spring: Prepare Your Home for Warmer Weather
With warmer temperatures on the way, many people are switching off the heat and thinking ahead to cooling, outdoor projects, and making the most of the season. From prepping your AC for the months ahead to taking advantage of longer daylight hours, spring is the perfect time to refresh your home’s energy habits.
UGI encourages customers to take these steps to make their home safer, more comfortable, and more energy efficient this spring:
Schedule a Spring HVAC Tune-Up
Before the heat of summer arrives, have a licensed technician inspect and service your air conditioning system. Replacing filters, cleaning coils, and checking refrigerant levels can improve efficiency, and help you avoid costly breakdowns during peak cooling season. UGI makes it easy to find a licensed contractor and schedule an appointment.
Plant Trees and Shrubs Strategically
In the spirit of Earth Day, consider planting trees or tall shrubs on the south and west sides of your home. As they grow, they provide natural shade that reduces cooling costs and lessens the load on your AC system during the hottest months.
Take Advantage of Longer Daylight Hours
Spring brings more natural light, so make the most of it. Open blinds and curtains during the day and make a habit of turning off lights when they're not needed.
Prep Your Yard and Outdoor Spaces
Clear debris from around your outdoor AC unit and any gas meters or utility equipment to ensure proper airflow and safe access. Keep vegetation trimmed back from all utility equipment.
Use Ceiling Fans Wisely
Switch your ceiling fans to run counter-clockwise in the spring and summer to create a cooling breeze effect, allowing you to raise the thermostat a few degrees without sacrificing comfort.
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Year-Round, Every Day Energy Tips by Room
Whole House
- Easiest way to start saving is to turn off all fans and lights in unoccupied rooms or when you no longer need them.
- During the heating season, open the drapes and take advantage of the sun’s warmth and give your heater a break.
- It takes more energy to pump air into a space where the vents are blocked, unblock vents where possible.
- Use a smart thermostat to program your schedule to adjust the temperature while you are sleeping and away.
Living Room
- Install a smart power strip on your electronic entertainment centers to cut down on unnecessary plug load.
- Unplug your phone/watch chargers when they are not in use.
- Use a ceiling fan so you can turn down your AC, but be sure to turn it off when you leave the room.
Bathroom
- Take a 10-minute shower instead of a bath to save water and money on your heating bill.
- Install a properly sized ENERGY STAR® vent fan to control moisture in the air while you shower.
- Install low flow shower heads and faucet aerators to conserve water.
Laundry Room
- Save energy by giving your dryer a break and hanging your clothes out to dry.
- Clean your lint trap between each dryer load to maximize air flow and efficiency of your dryer.
- Wash full loads with cold water whenever possible. If you must wash partial loads, reduce the level of water appropriately.