Look around your home for ways to save energy...and money

Paying attention to our energy usage makes us smart consumers and good stewards of the environment. It also provides the added benefit of saving us money on our monthly utility bills. October is National Energy Awareness Month, a time to highlight ways to increase energy efficiency. Here are a few things that will make a difference in your home.

• Block those drafts – Caulk around windows and doors to keep outside air from coming indoors.
• Protect the water heater – Get an insulating blanket for your water heater to help it retain heat. It’ll pay for itself in less than a year. And while you’re at it, set your water heater temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Remember the small stuff – Unplug smaller electric equipment when it’s not in use (e.g., coffee maker, cellphone charger, fan, radio, etc.). These items still use energy even when they are not being used, and that energy usage adds up over time.
• Rule the thermostat – Consider installing a programmable thermostat so you can set the temperature based on your schedule. Heating or cooling the house when no one is home just wastes energy.

Visit lge-ku.com/tips for more energy-efficiency ideas.