Shortening the vent hose on your clothes dryer can save you approximately $25 per year, and it’s easy to do.
Your vent hose should be cleaned with a vacuum at least once per year – so while you have it disconnected for cleaning, trim the hose so it’s just long enough to still allow you to pull the dryer a few feet from the wall. The shorter run will allow the dryer to run more efficiently.
Since you can do this yourself, for free, you’ll gain 100% of the savings.
Enrolling in load management programs and off-hour rate programs offered by your electric utility may save you up to $100 a year in electricity costs.
While details may vary between power companies, these load management programs will usually consist of shutting off power to your home – usually for no more than 10-15 minutes – during times of very high power usage. Additionally, the “shut off” will usually only be during certain peak-usage hours.
Call your electric utility for information about these cost-saving programs.
A home energy audit can identify ways to save up to hundreds of dollars a year on home heating (and air conditioning). Ask your electric or gas utility if they audit homes for free or for a reasonable charge. If they do not, ask them to refer you to a qualified professional.