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| No Cost / Low Cost Energy Savings Tips |
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No Cost / Low Cost (pdf)
No Cost
- Turn off everything not in use (lights, computers, etc.). Appliances such as dvd players and televisions still consume power by being plugged in but not turned on. Unplug these appliances or use a surge protector and turn the switch off when not in use to avoid “phantom load”.
Only heat or cool rooms in the house you use. Close vents and doors of unused rooms.
Set your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
If possible take a quick shower instead of a bath. You’ll save 10 to 20 gallons of water.
Wait until you have a full load to run the dishwasher and clothes washer.
Use less hot water, wash clothes and use the garbage disposal with cold water.
Defrost freezers when ice becomes ¼ inch thick.
Clean the coils at the back or bottom of your refrigerator twice a year.
Keep light fixtures clean.
Don’t block air registers with furniture, drapes or other objects.
Avoid using appliances that use more wattage. (Use the microwave instead of oven).
In the winter, let the sun shine in by opening drapes on the windows. Be sure to close them at night.
In the summer, use fans and open windows instead of running the air conditioner.
Reduce nighttime thermostat setting 5 to 8 degrees.
Reduce daytime thermostat in winter, maintaining a 68 to 70 degree temperature.
Increase daytime thermostat in the summer, maintaining a 78 to 80 degree temperature.
Low Cost
- Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs). These bulbs use two-thirds less energy and last up to ten times longer.
- Routine maintenance on your air-conditioner and furnace can prolong product life and reduce operating costs.
- Install a programmable thermostat. If properly adjusted, this will pay for itself.
- Use an insulation kit to cover the water heater.
- Install low-flow showerheads to reduce hot water use.
- Planting trees in certain places around your home can help create shade or provide a wind break for your home. Learn more.
- Caulk and weather-strip windows and doors to reduce air leaks. Other places that can be sealed include; attics, recessed lighting, gaps around plumbing and electrical outlets, vents and fireplaces.
- Use plastic sheeting over windows to reduce heat loss and decrease drafts.
- When purchasing new appliances compare the purchase price with the operating costs, purchase those that are ENERGY STAR rated if possible.
- Add insulation to your attic if it has less than 6 inches of cellulose or 7 inches of fiberglass insulation.
- Add storm windows or doors to your home if not already equipped.
- Install motion lighting or dimmer switches to lighting system.
Learn more about Common Energy Myths
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- Learn how to save energy dollars at home
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- Learn how to save energy dollars at your business
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