Preparing Your Home and Business for Fall: 18 Energy-Efficiency Tips

As the leaves change color and the weather gets cooler, it's a great time to think about how you can save on your energy bill. Here are some ideas to help you keep your home cozy without breaking the bank. Simple adjustments can make an impact on your energy savings this season.

Seal drafts: Check your windows and doors for any drafts. Use weather stripping or caulk to seal up any gaps. This will keep the warm air inside and the cold air out, making your heating system work more efficiently.
Adjust your thermostat: Lowering your thermostat by just a few degrees can make a big difference. Try setting it to 68°F when you're home and awake and lower it when you're asleep or away. A programmable thermostat can make this even easier.
Maintain your heating system: Make sure your heating system is running efficiently by scheduling a maintenance check. Replace filters regularly to ensure your system is working at its best.
Unplug electronics: Even when they're turned off, electronics can still use energy if they're plugged in. Unplug devices when they're not in use or use a power strip to easily turn off multiple items at once.
Use ceiling fans wisely: Set your ceiling fans to rotate clockwise at a low speed. This will push warm air down from the ceiling, helping to keep your rooms warmer.
Close the fireplace damper: When your fireplace is not in use, make sure the damper is closed. An open damper allows warm air to escape up in the chimney.
Use rugs: Cover bare floors with rugs to help insulate your home. Rugs can help keep your feet warm and reduce the need for extra heating.
Take shorter showers: Hot water can be a big energy expense. Try to take shorter showers and consider installing a low-flow shower-head to reduce water usage.
Insulate your home: Adding insulation to your attic, walls, and floors can help keep the heat in and the cold out. This can make a big difference in your energy usage.
Use natural light: Take advantage of the sun's natural heat by opening curtains and blinds during the day. This can help warm up your home without using extra energy.

By following these tips, you can enjoy a warm and cozy home this fall while keeping your energy bills under control. Find more energy-saving tips you can use at home at sdge.com/MyEnergy.

Small businesses can also take proactive steps to reduce energy use and save on utility bills. Here are eight more tips to help your business stay energy-efficient this season:

Optimize heating systems: Schedule a maintenance check for your heating system to ensure it runs effectively. Clean your filters and ducts to improve airflow and reduce energy use.
Use energy-efficient appliances: Invest in ENERGY STAR-rated appliances and offer equipment. These products are designed to use less energy without sacrificing performance.
Encourage energy-saving practices: Educate employees about energy-saving practices, such as turning off lights and equipment when not in use and using natural light whenever possible.
Insulate your building: Proper insulation can help reduce heating costs. Consider adding insulation to walls, attics, and basements to keep the heat in.
Utilize smart power strips: They help prevent "phantom" energy use from electronics that are plugged in but not in use. These strips can automatically cut power to devices that are not being used.
Know your energy pricing plan: Make sure you're on the best for your business. Go to MyEnergyCenter.com, click on "Billing" and then "Pricing Plans".
Install motion sensors: Reduced electricity use and longer-lasting bulbs can lead to cost savings.
Implement telecommuting at your office: Allow employees to work from home to reduce energy use in the office.

Implementing these tips can help your small business save energy and reduce costs this fall. Not only will you be contributing to a more sustainable environment, but you'll also see a positive impact on your bottom line. For more tips on how to save energy, visit sdge.com/MyBusiness.