Home/Utilities
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Vines on the southern and western walls cut the summer heat. Turbines on the roof let out summer heat. Cover them in winter. Insulating the attic pays for itself in 3- 4 years, insulating the walls does in l0 years. Turn down the temperature on the water heater. Insulating the tank saves $55/yr. Insulate the pipes. Instant water heaters claim to save 20-50% on gas. Carpet and padding cut down on heat loss. To the south of the house, plant trees which lose their leaves in winter and shade the house in summer. If repainting, chose white - it doesn't fade. Buying an airless sprayer for jobs like this can pay for itself in the long run. Put in double windows with a high R-value when replacing. Buy a carpet machine for rugs, furniture, and car upholstery rather than renting one every year. Turn off the furnace pilot light over the summer. Turn off the stove's pilot light and light the stove with a lighter (on the low setting to keep from getting singed). Hook up the washer only to cold water. This saves 90% of the cost of washing. Wash only full loads. Dry only full, consecutive loads. Keep filters clean. Low-flow shower heads claim to save families up to $250/yr. Turn down the water pressure for bathroom and kitchen faucets. Use an aerator in the kitchen faucet.
Use an electronic thermostat which turns the heat down when you're
sleeping. Close up to l/4th of the vents outside the bedrooms. Close shades and drapes to keep heat in in winter and the sun out in summer. A 220 volt air conditioner (if your house is wired for it) is more efficient. Mount air conditioner in the shade and wind. Close off rooms not being used. For homeowners and renters insurance, ask for discounts for burglar alarms and smoke detectors. Do home repairs with the help of books. Browse "as is" yards in thrift shops for furniture, appliances, parts, etc. Save receipts; send in warranties. Buy TVs, VCRs, stereos, answer machines, telephones, etc. as separate components. Use rechargeable batteries and a battery checker. |
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