Let’s face it — recessionary times are tough. Many of us (my family and I included) have cut our expenditures in numerous and creative ways. Slowing the flow of your utility meters is one great way to save and here are some tips to help you do just that.

If these tips seem insignificant take a step back and look at the bigger picture. When followed together, this list of energy saving tips can add up to substantial monthly savings.

There are many simple ways to reduce your home energy consumption.

1. Awareness

Perhaps the simplest way to conserve is by being aware. Be aware of things you can do daily to conserve, like: showering instead of bathing, turning lights off when you leave a room, shutting off the water while you brush your teeth, and washing dishes only when the dishwasher is full.

Try it, I’m sure you’ll come up with dozens more. When you do, share your ideas with us.

2. Set or Program Your Thermostat

What is the temperature setting on your thermostat? Turn the temperature down a few degrees in the winter and up in the summer. Turn it back a few degrees more at night and even more while you are away from home especially when you are gone for extended periods of time.

If you don’t have one already, consider a programmable thermostat. You can program it to automatically change temperature settings on a schedule that fits your lifestyle.

According to Energy Star a typical single family home can save as much as $180 per year through proper use of a programmable thermostat. These conservative figures don’t include vacation settings with which you can save even more.

3. Check Your Attic Insulation

Attic insulation can settle over time which causes a loss in R-Value. Insulation may not be a do it yourself project for everyone but having your attic insulation upgraded by a professional is typically inexpensive and often free with utility company sponsored programs.

How thick is the insulation in your attic? According to the Cellulose Insulation Manufacturers Association “CIMA” sprayed/blown cellulose insulation has an R-Value between 3.6 and 4.0 per inch.

Assuming a worst case scenario of R-3.6 per inch here’s how to determine the R-Value of your home’s ceiling insulation.

1. From your attic measure and note the thickness of the ceiling insulation using a ruler or tape measure.
2. Divide the thickness, in inches, of your cellulose insulation by 3.6. This is the R-Value of your ceiling insulation.

To improve accuracy measure with a thin ruler and try to disturb the insulation as little as possible. Measure the distance from the top of the drywall ceiling to the top your insulation. Following the old adage — better safe than sorry — I prefer to measure in a location where the insulation is shallow.

The International Energy Conservation Code or “IECC”, which is the code adopted by all building departments in Uintah County and Duchesne County (including Vernal City and Roosevelt City), indicates the minimum standard for ceiling insulation in our zone (zone 6) is R-49. R-49 is nearly 14 inches of cellulose.

Stay tuned for part two and I’ll share more tips for conserving energy and lowering your utility bills. In the mean time you may also enjoy this article regarding thermostats.

Don’t forget to share your energy saving ideas by commenting below. We’d love to hear them!