Energy Efficiency Tips to Control Your Usage

Energy efficiency begins with you! You can take some simple steps to reduce your impact on the environment, not to mention your wallet. When you have an energy-efficient home, you'll not only keep your family comfortable, but you’ll also save money.

Use these low or no-cost energy saving tips to turn your home into a model of efficiency.

Simple Ways to Save Energy

• Clean or replace air filters once a month to keep your HVAC running efficiently.

• Turn off kitchen, bath and other exhaust fans within 20 minutes after you're finished cooking or bathing.

• Supplement your air conditioning with ceiling fans to increase comfort.

• Close blilnds and curtains to reduce heat in your home.

• Keep window coverings closed on south, east and west windows.

• Keep windows and doors closed when using an air conditioner or heater.

• Caulk and weather strip doors and windows.

Better Ways to Save Energy

• Wash a full load and use cold water whenever possible.

• Wait until you have a full load to run the dishwasher and let your dishes air dry.

• Use an outdoor grill in summer months to keep your kitchen cooler.

• Plug home electronics power strips that can be turned off when the electronics are not in use.

• Use low-power mode for computers and phones.

• Replace incandescent bulbs with CFL or LED bulbs

Best Ways to Save Energy

• Avoid using large appliances Between 3 P.M. and 7 P.M., which is the peak time for usage.

• Keep your refrigerator between 36 and 38 degrees and set your freezer between 0 and 5 degrees.

• Keep the thermostat as high as you can comfortably stand (The U.S. Department of Energy recommends 78°).

• When replacing appliances, look for ENERGY STAR-rated products.

• Purchase a Standby Generator System.