Tips on how to reduce energy costs

FARGO, ND (Valley News Live) – It’s National Cut Energy Day. There are simple steps homeowners can take to save some money this winter.

One of the biggest energy costs is heating. Experts say that changing your furnace filter and cleaning your dryer vents could help net you some savings.

Set your water heater thermostat to 120 degrees. Also, installing a smart thermostat helps people control the temperature in their homes when they are out of town.

Other items in your home could be great power generators.

“Large appliances are a big factor in your electric bill, especially during the dry months,” said Paul Matthys, vice president of energy and member services for the Cass County Electric Cooperative.

Even simply changing the type of bulb used could save homeowners money.

If you have old lamps that are incandescent, you can definitely switch your bulbs to LEDs and that should lower your energy costs,” said Todd McFadden, owner of McFadden Electric.

Over time, appliances lose efficiency, experts say, while upgrading might come at a high up-front cost, in the long run you might see some savings.

Source: news.google.com