What energy-saving tips does Duke Energy recommend?

Duke Energy offers a variety of energy-saving tips that can help customers reduce their electricity consumption and lower their bills. One of the primary recommendations is to perform regular maintenance on heating and cooling systems. This includes changing air filters regularly and having systems serviced annually to ensure they operate efficiently. Additionally, sealing any drafts in windows and doors can significantly reduce heating and cooling costs, as it helps maintain a consistent temperature indoors. Another suggestion is to use energy-efficient appliances. When replacing old appliances, customers are encouraged to look for products that have the Energy Star certification, which indicates superior energy efficiency. For lighting, switching to LED bulbs is a practical choice since they use significantly less energy compared to traditional incandescent bulbs and last much longer. Duke Energy also emphasizes the importance of smart home technology in managing energy consumption. Programmable thermostats allow users to set specific temperatures for different times of the day, helping to avoid heating or cooling an empty home. Utilizing smart power strips can also help cut down on power usage by preventing phantom loads from devices that consume energy even when not in active use. Furthermore, Duke Energy suggests taking advantage of natural light during the day to reduce reliance on electric lighting. By keeping curtains or blinds open whenever possible, customers can maximize daylight in their homes. To find more detailed information, including specific programs and resources that Duke Energy provides for energy efficiency, visiting their official website would be beneficial, as it often features updates and newly available resources tailored to their customers. Overall, implementing these strategies can help both save money and contribute to more sustainable energy use.