Energy Efficiency
Tips ....

Lower Your Water Heating Costs

Water heating can account for 14% - 25% of the energy consumed in your home. Turn down the temperature of your water heater to the warm setting (120° F). You'll avoid scalding your hands at the same time that you save money.

 

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Energy Efficiency Tips

 

You can save energy by following these simple tips. Many of the suggestions don't require special tools and won't cost you a penny. But they will save you money if you follow them on a daily basis.

 

• Lower the Thermostat. When you are home and awake, set your thermostat as low as you can and still be comfortable. But turn the thermostat down 5-10 degrees when you go to work during the day or go to sleep at night.

 

• Maintain Your Heating System. Have your system serviced once a year by a professional to make sure it is operating efficiently. Replace furnace filters once a month or as needed during winter months. Clean the flue vent regularly in your wood- and pellet-burning heaters.

 

• Reduce Heat Loss from your Fireplace. Keep your damper closed when you don't have a fire going.

 

• Take Advantage of Heat from the Sun. Open the curtains or blinds on your south-facing windows during the day to allow the sunlight to naturally heat your home. Close them at night to reduce the chill from cold windows.

 

• Cover Drafty Windows. Cover your windows and frame with heavy-duty, clear plastic. The plastic window film that you can purchase at the hardware store shrinks to a clear finish so you still have a view, but it keeps the drafts out.

 

• Seal Air Leaks. Caulk around your windows, doors, and any place where two different building materials meet.

 

• Turn the Water Heater Down. Set your water heater at 120°F.

 

• Turn Off the Water While Shaving and Brushing Teeth.

 

• Use Cold Water to Wash and Rinse Clothes.

 

• Wash Full Loads.

 

• Drain Your Water Heater. Drain some water from the water heater regularly to remove sediment.

 

• Clean the Refrigerator Coils. Once or twice a year, vacuum the coils behind and under your refrigerator.

 

• Use the Right Size Pot/Pan on the Stove Burner. Don't put a small pot on a large burner.

 

• Cover Pots/Pans When Cooking. Using a cover helps reach higher temperatures quicker.

 

• Replace Light Bulbs with Compact Fluorescent Bulbs. CFL bulbs are most effective in high use areas where the lights are on for longer periods of time.

 

• Turn Off Lights When You Leave the Room.

 

 

 

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