Buy a programmable thermostat and use it to keep your home most comfortable during the hours you are at home and awake.
Try setting the temperature at a few degrees higher (summer) or lower (winter) than you presently do. A change of one degree can mean a savings of up to 3%.
Use compact fluorescent lightbulbs. While they are slightly more expensive up front, ($4 -$6 each) they last about six times longer than incandescent bulbs. Replacing your five most used bulbs with fluorescent bulbs can save about $60 a year.
Keep appliances, furnaces and air conditioners in good repair. Change filters regularly. When buying new appliances, consider those with the “Energy Star” rating.
Look for energy drains in your home. Insulate your attic and water heater, caulk drafty windows, and close off unused rooms.
Appliances and computers draw power even when they are off but plugged in. Unplug the small kitchen appliances, laundry machines, the iron and computers when not in use.
In summer, avoid activities that will generate heat during the hottest part of the day, such as running the dryer or using the oven.
Explore BGE’s Time of Usage Rate Plan to determine if it would lower your bills.
Become energy wise. Learn what makes the biggest impact on your usage and explore ways to economize.