Do away with dust

Light bulbs

Dusty light bulbs and accessories (think lampshades, glass covers and wall sconces) actually reduce the amount of light emitted, which may cause you to turn on more lights or max out the dimmer switch – which will drive up your electricity use. For a more energy-efficient household, keep your lighting clean and dust-free. To clean bulbs and fixtures, turn off the lights, remove any accessories, clean bulbs with a dry cloth, then wipe down and thoroughly dry the accessories.

Computers

Dust is the number one cause of damage to computers. That’s because their cooling systems gradually clog up with dust and debris, which can cause overheating and damage the hardware. To dust inside your computer, power down and unplug it, move it to a ventilated area, remove the back plate and use a can of compressed air – you can buy one for $20. Avoid using a vacuum, as this creates static build-up. Give your other electronics the same treatment with a microfibre cleaning cloth.

Refrigerators

When a refrigerator’s condenser coils are coated in dust and debris, the motor must work harder to maintain the cold. Keep it running efficiently by keeping the coils clean. First, disconnect the power. Next, expose the condenser coils at the bottom or in back. Vacuum up dust and debris, loosen any grime with a soft-bristle or refrigerator coil brush – then vacuum again. While you’re at it, wipe down the seals on the doors to reduce cold air escaping.

Air ducts

Do you see wisps of dust peeking out of your air vents? Dust and dirt restrict air flow and prevent your heating and cooling system from working efficiently. Plus, a dense layer of accumulated dust makes an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, dust mites and mold. Enlist a qualified air-duct cleaner andensure you have the appropriate amount of suction (measured in cubic feet of air per minute, or CFM) for your home.

Filters

The air in your home is only as clean as your filters. Plus, filters clogged with dust and debris force your heating and cooling system to use more electricity just to push through the same amount of air. Check your filters once a month, and replace them every one to three months, depending on your system’s requirements. It’s one of the most effective ways to reduce overall dust and boost energy efficiency at home.