Tips for Conserving Energy

• Keep your thermostat at 70 degrees during the heating season.
• Raise your cooling thermostat to 78 degrees during the summer.
• Clean and replace filters often.
• Cover window air conditioning units during the winter.
• Cover the openings of unused fireplaces.
• Open draperies and shades in sunny windows on cold days. Keep them closed at night to prevent heat from escaping.
• Use warm or cold water for washing clothes where you can and always use cold water to rinse.
• Run the dryer at night in the summer so its warmth isn't released during the heat of the day.
• Clear the lint screen after each load for quick drying.
• Take shorter showers and install water saving shower heads.
• Turn off the water faucet while shaving or brushing your teeth.
• Use long life, lower wattage light bulbs.
• Change from Incandescent to Fluorescent lights when possible.
• Use the dishwasher only when full.
• If you need a new appliance, always shop for the most energy efficient.
• Vacuum the coils on your refrigerator at least every three months. The dirt build-up makes the refrigerator work harder to keep the contents cool and therefore uses more energy.
• Weather strip around all exterior doors and openings. Insulate hot water piping. Repair any leaky faucets. Install storm or thermal windows and doors.
• Remember that is important not to have lamps, televisions or other heat sources close to the air conditioner thermostat - heat from these sources may cause the air conditioner unit to run longer than it should.
• Check to ensure that no furniture or other obstacles are blocking ducts or fans. This will enable cooled air to circulate freely.
• Do your cooking, showering, washing, clothes drying and ironing in the morning or the evening when the temperatures are cooler.