Watch Your Energy Usage

Today is Xcel Energy's first day of the two-tier rate system.  It continues through the end of September.  Your first 500 kilowatt hours are charged one rate.  Then anything above that is charged a rate that is practically double the first.  Now is the time to conserve electricity!!

Here are some ideas to reduce your usage:

• Unplug any unused appliances to avoid "phantom" currents.  Things like the toaster, lamps you rarely use, a cell phone charging that has already reached it's full charge, etc.
• Hold off on the A/C.  Wait as long as possible before you switch on that electricity guzzling machine. 
• Close blinds/curtains when the sun is shining directly in.
• Open windows at night to welcome that cool night air.  (But make sure your a/c is off and that you close the windows during the heat of the day.)
• Run full dishwasher and laundry loads.

Blinding Summer

Now that it is almost summer, here is a tip to beat the summer heat.  Keep blinds/curtains closed for windows that get direct sunlight.  The blinds will reflect the heat away from the window, keeping the interior of your house cooler.

In winter, do just the opposite, using the sun's warmth to help heat your house.

Showers are Savers

Taking a short shower instead of a bath is a great way to save money and the environment.  Not only do you save money on gallons of water, but you also save money on the cost of heating that extra water.

I must be completely honest and say that I rarely follow this tip, although I should.  Baths are one of the few "luxuries" I allow myself!

Community Spring Clean

Many communities offer FREE cleanup services during the springtime.  Search your city website for dates of when they provide free removal of large garbage items.  Usually it is only offered one day, so take advantage of it so you don't have to pay your garbage service for extra items.  Cities also often offer a free Hazardous Waste Collection day... again saving you from having to pay for hazardous waste removal.  Spring clean and save some green!!

Switch Your Bulbs

Burned out light bulb?  Replace it with a CFL bulb.  While the upfront cost is more than a regular light bulb, you will save money in the end because a CFL bulb lasts much longer and costs much less in electricity.

Shop Around

Have you been with the same trash company for several years?  It might be time to make some calls to see if you are still getting the best deal.  I recently did and I was surprised to see how great the differences in prices were.  You may be able to save a lot of money by switching.  Or you may discover you are already getting the best deal.  Either way, you'll ensure you are saving!

Jamie