Don’t go broke this winter: Ways to save on your power bill

November 7, 2012

Operation: Don’t Go Broke is devoted to bringing readers helpful tips on ways to save in college.

Whether you love or hate the snow, don’t panic when it’s time to pay your power bill.

Anna Quesenberry
The Broadside

Follow these steps to shrink your power bill and expand your wallet this winter:

Utilize your wood-stove. Cut, split and stack your own firewood.

Program your thermostat to kick on only when someone is home.

Wear layers, stay active or wrap up in a blanket to stay comfortable.

Get rid of drafts by inspecting doorways, outlets and pipes.

Apply plastic covering to the outside of inefficient windows.

Insulate the attic.

Use a space heater when you’re home alone.

Shut doors and close vents of rooms that do not require heat.

Opening up drapes during the day and turn lights off.

Arrange your home to get the most of your windows. Place desk near a window or skylight and only power a lamp during evening studying.

Employ energy-efficient laundry habits. Run your washing machine on cold and hang laundry to dry.

Dishwashers are nice, but consider hand-washing lighter loads.

Shower at the gym or take shorter showers at home.

Energy-efficient light bulbs use a quarter of the energy of incandescent light bulbs and last longer.

TIP: Upgrading 15 light bulbs in your home could save you around $50 a year, according to the US Department of Energy.

Energy saving financial incentives are issued to individuals who make their homes more energy-efficient.

Contact your utility company for more info.

First year COCC nursing student Anna Quesenberry is a wife and mother of two who is passionate about saving money.

The Broadside