MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) As winter approaches, Mitchell residents have several ways to manage household utility costs, from updating light bulbs and maintaining furnace filters to monitoring water consumption for possible leaks. Small changes and routine maintenance can help households reduce waste and identify problems that could lead to higher bills.
Replacing older light bulbs with LEDs is one option. The U.S. Department of Energy identifies LEDs as an energy-efficient alternative to traditional lighting. Consumers should compare lumens, which measure brightness, when selecting replacement bulbs.
Electronics also can draw electricity while sitting idle. Advanced power strips can reduce that standby consumption by automatically cutting power to connected accessories in computer workstations or entertainment centers, according to the Building America Solution Center.
Heating and cooling filters deserve regular attention, too. Dirty filters restrict airflow, making equipment work harder. Replacement schedules depend on the filter and household conditions; a good habit is to change your filters every 30 to 90 days, with more frequent changes in some homes with pets or severe allergies.
Checking the water heater’s temperature provides another opportunity to conserve energy. The Department of Energy recommends a setting of 120 degrees Fahrenheit for most residential applications. Homeowners should follow equipment instructions when making adjustments.
Monitoring water use also can help residents identify waste. Mitchell utility customers can use the city’s online portal to review consumption by hour, day or month and receive alerts about possible leaks or unusually high usage. Tracking those changes can help households spot problems before they lead to larger bills. Learn more about Mitchell’s water monitoring portal and how to register.