Ernst & Haas Management Co Blog

Summer is fast approaching and sadly that means higher electricity bills. Here are a few helpful tips to keep your monthly expenses low.

1.  Lighting makes up about 10% of home energy costs. Save up to 75% of that energy by replacing incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs. They also last longer, which helps save money on replacements.
2.  Running your air conditioning at 78*F can save between 6 - 18% on your cooling bill. The smaller the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your overall cooling bill will be, so set your thermostat as high as possible during the summer months.
3.  Heating water can account for 14 - 25% of the energy consumed in your home. Turn down the temperature of your water heater to the warm setting (120*F). If you rent ask your property manager or landlord about this.
4.  Leaving a computer on all day can cost about 21 cents per day, or about $75 per year. Unplug electronics and appliances when not in use. This task is made easier by using multiple-outlet strips, which turn everything off with the flip of one switch!