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Embracing Energy Efficiency This Fall

As the leaves change and the mornings grow cooler, the arrival of fall serves as an excellent reminder to reassess our energy habits at home. The transition to cooler temperatures not only brings an opportunity to cozy up to our heating systems but also encourages us to contemplate ways to consume energy more wisely, thus saving money and benefiting the environment.

Ameren Corporation, a key player in providing electric and natural gas services to millions, advocates adopting proactive energy-saving strategies tailored for this season. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand your energy consumption and implement effective habits that can yield significant savings.

Step-by-Step Energy Monitoring

1. Use the Online Energy Dashboard: Visit the Ameren online portal and log into your account. Navigate to the energy usage section, where you can view detailed reports of your current energy consumption.

2. Complete the Home Profile Survey: Once you're in the dashboard, participate in a home profile survey designed to give you personalized insights regarding your energy habits based on your household’s characteristics and appliance usage.

3. Implement Changes Based on Insights: Utilize the information gathered to make small adjustments in your energy consumption patterns.

4. Set Up Alerts: Opt for alerts that notify you when your energy bill approaches your predefined spending limit, helping you stay within budget.

5. Regularly Check for New Tips: Make it a habit to log in to your account frequently and discover new ways to save money by improving your energy efficiency.

According to Tony Lozano, the Director of Energy Efficiency and Demand Response at Ameren Missouri, “We want customers to have the information and tools they need to take control of their energy usage... by adjusting daily habits, they can not only lower their energy costs but also contribute positively to the community’s overall energy grid.”

Building New Energy-Saving Habits

In addition to monitoring your usage, it's essential to develop energy-saving habits that can be integrated into your daily routine:

• - Unplug Electronics: Many small appliances and electronics are designed to stay on standby, consuming energy even when not in use. Unplugging these devices or connecting them to smart plugs that can completely shut them off can lead to savings of up to $100 annually.
• - Use Wool Dryer Balls: Replace conventional dryer sheets with reusable wool dryer balls, which help reduce drying times by nearly 50%, further conserving energy.
• - Shorten Your Showers: Simply cutting just three minutes off an eight-minute shower can aid in conserving water and energy.
• - Utilize Natural Ventilation: On mild weather days, open windows to allow fresh air to flow through your home, enhancing comfort without resorting to air conditioning.
• - Smart Thermostat Usage: Programming a smart thermostat to adjust your home's heating when you're not present can save an average of 8% on your energy bill or around $50 yearly. Additionally, Ameren offers $50 incentives for participating in their Peak Time Savings program.
• - Maintain Your Furnace: To keep your heating system efficient, replace the furnace filter every three months. This small maintenance task can save up to 15% on your heating costs and prevent allergens from circulating within your home.

Pat Justis, Director of Energy Efficiency at Ameren Illinois, states, “Adapting our energy habits as seasons change is vital. Whether you manage a household, rent an apartment, or run a business, each choice we make impacts our environment.”

Explore Available Rebates

For those eager to implement energy-saving measures, Ameren provides various rebates and savings opportunities on energy-efficient products available online at Ameren Missouri Marketplace or Ameren Illinois EEMarketplace.

Conclusion

As fall arrives, it’s the perfect moment to take charge of your energy consumption, modify your daily routines, and ultimately contribute to a more sustainable future. By adopting these simple habits, not only can you save money on your utility bills, you can also make a positive impact on the environment while preparing for the winter season ahead.