Five Tips to Save Energy This Spring

MGE has some quick and simple strategies for your household.

Are you doing some spring cleaning and organizing? Be sure to add energy efficiency projects to your list!

Dusting a wall vent
Consider a smart thermostat. You can save an estimated 10% on your heating by turning down your thermostat 10 degrees for eight hours a day. Smart thermostats make setbacks almost effortless. Visit mge.com/setback for guidance.
 
Clean appliances and vents. Keeping appliances clean and maintained can help them operate more efficiently. Be sure to hose off the outdoor central air-condensing unit to remove dirt and leaves, and choose a qualified contractor to service your central air every two years. Replace your furnace filter if it’s dirty, and take a few moments to wipe any dust from your vents.
 
Check your high and low return vents. If your home has both high and low air returns, give them a quick switch. When the seasons change and we go from heating to cooling, it’s more efficient to close the lower return and ensure the higher one is open.
 
Reduce hot water use. Water heating is typically the second-highest home energy user for most households in Wisconsin. Be sure to set your water heater between 120 and 125 degrees, and if you’re going on a trip, turn your gas water heater control down to the “vacation” or “pilot” setting if you’ll be gone for two or more days. If possible, always wash full loads in your dishwasher and clothes washer. Clothes should be washed in cold water using cold-water detergents whenever possible.
 
Unplug. Did you know many electronics in your home may be using energy when they’re plugged in, even if they are turned off? When you add it up, unused devices can impact your monthly energy use. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, phantom power can account for 5% to 10% of residential energy use.
 
Using energy efficiently and conserving it are some of the ways we all can reduce our environmental footprint and save energy!

published: Mar-26-2024