Energy Saving Tips From NorthWestern Energy [SPONSORED]

It's hard to think that an Energy Company wants to help you save energy!  Well that's what NorthWestern Energy is all about.  Saving energy whenever possible.  Check out the latest installment of energy saving tips from NW Energy.

Check out the complete list of Energy Saving Tips from NorthWestern Energy!

Clothes Dryers

• Check your dryer vent occasionally. A clogged vent causes your dryer to consume more energy. All gas dryers must be vented outside.
• Make sure your dryer is located in a heated part of your home. Dryers in an unheated area must warm incoming air, using more energy.
• Use a clothesline when possible.

 Other Tips

• Use cold water to operate your food disposal.
• Plant shade trees and shrubs on the sunny side of your house to cool it naturally. Plant coniferous (pine) trees on the north side to serve as a wind break.
• Install window shades or curtains to keep the sun out in summer and let it in during winter.
• Keep hot tubs and waterbeds covered when not in use.
• When shopping for a hot tub or spa, look for built-in energy-saving features. These include good insulation all around-including the cover-the use of low-voltage LED (Light Emitting Diodes) instead of incandescent bulbs, and low-wattage pumps.
• Install an outdoor-rated timer on the outlet for your engine block heater. Almost all engines need to be warmed for only about an hour, so a timer eliminates unnecessary heating.
• If you have central air conditioning, set your thermostat to the highest comfortable temperature. Install a setback thermostat to reduce cooling when you're away or sleeping.
• Shop for the highest SEER or EER rating possible on your air conditioning unit. The higher the number, the more efficient.

This article was sponsored by Northwestern Energy. For more great energy saving tips from Northwestern Energy,visit their website and start saving!