Energy Efficiency Tips

Electric Efficiency Tips

Energy efficiency is using less energy to provide the same level of energy service. As an example, a 13-watt fluorescent light bulb creates the same output as a 60-watt incandescent bulb, so you are getting the same amount of light but using less energy. Insulating your home will cause you to use less energy to heat or cool it to the same temperature as before the insulation was installed.

SEAL IT UP

Use weather stripping and caulk to seal air leaks and block drafts, even in the basement and attic, around doors, windows, chimneys, electrical outlets and other potential areas for air leakage.

ROLL IT UP

Make sure your home has adequate insulation. This includes the attic, exterior walls, floors, basement and crawl spaces. In unheated areas, be sure to insulate around furnace ducts or boiler pipes.

SET IT SMART

You can conserve energy by setting your thermostat at a lower temperature in the winter and higher temperature in the summer, particularly during periods of time you are away. Programmable thermostats can also save you energy and money if it is programmed to automatically adjust the temperature when you are asleep or away.

REPLACE OLDER HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING UNITS

Replacing older units with newer and more efficient units can save you money because they operate more efficiently. If replacing your heating and air conditioning unit is not possible, be sure to have them serviced each season by a trained professional so that they run at peak efficiency. Don’t forget to change your furnace filters regularly. Dirty filters make your system work harder and use more energy than necessary.

LET IT SHINE

Keep draperies, shades and blinds open on sunny winter days, especially when the windows face the south. This provides passive solar energy to your home and can improve your energy efficiency. If you have a solid surface floor, it will serve to store a small amount of heat that will radiate in the room.

The opposite is true on hot sunny summer days. You should keep drapes closed and it will provide insulation from the energy of the sun.

TURN IT OFF

Use exhaust fans when necessary, but remember to turn them off. Moisture from cooking and bathing can help to humidify your home, making it more comfortable in the winter, when the air tends to be more dry. Turn off the lights when you leave a room and unplug appliances when finished with them.

Energy Saver Booklet

Download this booklet provided by the Department of Energy.

 Download PDF

Gas Efficiency Tips

Energy efficiency is using less energy to provide the same level of energy service. As an example, a 13-watt fluorescent light bulb creates the same output as a 60-watt incandescent bulb, so you are getting the same amount of light but using less energy. Insulating your home will cause you to use less energy to heat or cool it to the same temperature as before the insulation was installed.

SEAL IT UP

Use weather stripping and caulk to seal air leaks and block drafts, even in the basement and attic, around doors, windows, chimneys, electrical outlets and other potential areas for air leakage.

ROLL IT UP

Make sure your home has adequate insulation. This includes the attic, exterior walls, floors, basement and crawl spaces. In unheated areas, be sure to insulate around furnace ducts or boiler pipes.

SET IT SMART

You can conserve energy by setting your thermostat at a lower temperature in the winter and higher temperature in the summer, particularly during periods of time you are away. Programmable thermostats can also save you energy and money if it is programmed to automatically adjust the temperature when you are asleep or away.

REPLACE OLDER HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING UNITS

Replacing older units with newer and more efficient units can save you money because they operate more efficiently. If replacing your heating and air conditioning unit is not possible, be sure to have them serviced each season by a trained professional so that they run at peak efficiency. Don’t forget to change your furnace filters regularly. Dirty filters make your system work harder and use more energy than necessary.

REDUCE HEAT LOSS THROUGH WINDOWS

If you have a newer home, or one with efficient replacement windows, you may not have an issue. If you live in an older home, storm windows are a good solution to prevent excess heat loss. You can also put clear plastic sheets over the inside or outside of your windows to reduce heat loss and increase comfort. Window wrap kits, available at your hardware or home store, are an ideal choice for the job.

LET IT SHINE

Keep draperies, shades and blinds open on sunny winter days, especially when the windows face the south. This provides passive solar energy to your home and can improve your energy efficiency. If you have a solid surface floor, it will serve to store a small amount of heat that will radiate in the room.

The opposite is true on hot sunny summer days. You should keep drapes closed and it will provide insulation from the energy of the sun.

TURN IT OFF

Use exhaust fans when necessary, but remember to turn them off. Moisture from cooking and bathing can help to humidify your home, making it more comfortable in the winter, when the air tends to be more dry. Turn off the lights when you leave a room and unplug appliances when finished with them.

Energy Saver Booklet

Download this booklet from the Department of Energy.

 Download PDF