Energy Efficiency Tips and Links
Lighting
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Replace regular (incandescent) light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs. They use 3 to 4 times less energy, and last 8 to 10 times longer.
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Install motion sensors or photocells on outdoor lights.
- Remember to turn off lights when not being used
Heating & cooling
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Make sure your home is well insulated. Ceiling insulation is most important for year round comfort and savings. Also consider adding floor or wall insulation.
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Make sure that heating and cooling ducts are sealed and insulated.
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Buy high efficiency heating and air conditioning equipment.
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Install an Energy Star programmable thermostat.
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Clean furnace filters monthly. Dirty filters restrict airflow and increase energy use.
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If you're replacing old windows, select high performance windows designed to keep in heat during winter and keep out heat in summer.
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Plant shade trees to keep your home cool in the summer.
- Stop leaks around doors and windows with weatherstripping and caulking.
Appliances
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Buy energy-efficient appliances. Look for the Energy Star label.
Water Heating and Hot Water Use
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Reduce hot water use by installing low-flow showerheads and faucets.
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Check for leaks. A leaky hot water faucet will waste water and heat.
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Lower your water heater's thermostat to 120ºF, unless the owner's manual for your dishwasher requires a higher setting.
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Operate your dishwasher with full loads only.
For More About Energy Efficiency:
Power Profiler. An informative site by the US EPA about how clean our local energy sources are in relation to the nation as a whole. For instance, it will tell you that 9% of our energy comes from renewable energy sources and 12% comes from coal (compared to 2% and 52% nationwide). Information on energy efficiency and the quantities of nitrous oxide, carbon dioxide, and sulfur dioxide your energy usage produces is also available.
