Try Energy Efficient Space HeatersEnergy Efficient Heaters
Courtesy of Duquella Manera.com Energy Efficient Space Heaters Turn up the Heat Recently an acquaintance of mine learned a valuable lesson of frugal living 101 when they left their so called "energy efficient space heaters" plugged in during a thunderstorm. It is very important to unplug these types of electric appliances when they are not in use. Not only can this preemptive action save money by not needing to replace expensive electronics such as your computer and digital TV, as these could be struck by lighting and may potentially prevent a home from catching on fire. There are a variety of options available when deciding on energy efficient space heaters. Most people think of space heaters as the portable type that can be unplugged and taken from room to room. There are other types though, including electric radiant, electric fan forced, and electric oil filled. Safety features included on energy efficient space heaters are a shut-off timer, a tip-over sensor, a touch sensor, and overheat sensor. There are models that feature manual heat adjustment, a thermostat, fan speed adjustment, and a digital display. Energy efficient heaters may be a wall mounted heater, or a baseboard electric heater, but regardless of their attachments, energy efficient heaters should be cost effective for the amount of money you have to pay for the electricity on your particular grid. Energy star tax credits Courtesy of pasukaru26.com Check with your local electricity provider to see if you qualify for rebates when installing a solar thermal water heating system. Many electric companies offer a $1,000 rebate for installation of these systems. Frugal living consumers may also be eligible for a $500 rebate from their home state. Additionally, apply for a 30 percent Federal tax credit, applicable to tax payers through the year 2016, for purchasing energy star labeled appliances. Safety tips for energy efficient space heaters *Always use a heavy-duty extension cord when using an electric room heater. * Whenever possible, use the appliance in the smallest room of your house with the door shut to rapidly warm up the space so you can turn the heat setting down. * Place an inexpensive efficient space heater in the bathroom, and taking shorter showers will be easier. * As a safety precaution when there are children or pets around, it is a good idea to purchase a heater that are cool to the touch. * Keep the space in front of the heaters clear of any objects that might burn. Other energy saving steps for frugal living Courtesy of Jason Pratt.com * There are several ways to take advantage of passive solar heat. Examples are when you brew a jug of sun tea or plant your tomato garden with a southern exposure to harness the sun's energy. * Insulate the water heater with a wrap around water heater blanket, especially if it is in an unheated area. * Set the water heater thermostat to 120 degrees if you have a dishwasher. * Keep the coils on the refrigerator and freezer dirt free. * Install energy-saving faucets, shower heads, or a flow restrictor. * Operate the dishwasher with a full load and dry dishes on the energy saver setting. * Cook on range-top burners instead of in the oven whenever possible. * Use the microwave for reheating food. * Compact Fluorescent light bulbs last ten times longer and use one-quarter the amount of energy than regular light bulbs. * Use timers or dimmer switches on lights. Frugal living fans can turn up the heat without breaking into a cold sweat over the electricity bills by purchasing energy efficient space heaters with an oscillating fan. There are many low cost models for the thrifty homeowner to stay warm and still keep their cool over what the electric company charges! Look for our upcoming part 2 on energy star tax credits! Courtesy of shaferlens.com Return to Frugal Living From Energy Efficient Space Heaters
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