As warmer weather approaches, now is the perfect time to give your home an energy efficiency makeover. Here are some tips from Idaho Power to get your home ready for spring.

• Replace your HVAC system air filters. Dirty filters block necessary airflow and can significantly reduce your system’s efficiency and life.
• Check your thermostat settings and adjust for a spring/summer schedule. Program your thermostat to allow automatic adjustments. Visit Idaho Power’s website to see if you qualify for a $50 smart thermostat incentive —idahopower.com/heatingcooling.
• Clear leaves and debris off the outside A/C or heat pump unit. This allows proper air flow for your unit to work more effectively.
• Use LED bulbs with dusk-to-dawn sensors for outside lighting. You’ll never forget to turn the lights off again.
• Seal air leaks around windows and doors by caulking, weatherstripping, or adjusting hardware for a better fit. Fixing air leaks is a cheap and easy way to improve comfort and reduce energy use.
• Plant shade trees to shield west-facing windows. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, well-placed shade trees can block the sun’s rays and reduce energy used for summer cooling by 15% or more.
• Use cold water for laundry. Wash clothes in cold water to save on water heating costs.

For more energy-saving tips, visit idahopower.com/save.

Alexis Freeman
Marketing Specialist
afreeman@idahopower.com
208-388-2291