Energy Saving Tips

Refrigerator

• Clean the condensor coils of your refrigerator at least once a year, but make sure the refrigerator is unplugged.
• Check refrigerator door gaskets for leaks by closing the door on a single sheet of paper and tugging gently to remove it. If it falls out without much effort, the gasket needs replacing.

Range

• If you use glass or ceramic baking dishes, you can lower the baking temperature 25 degrees because these materials retain heat better than others.
• Use the right size pans for the job. Flat bottoms are best, particularly for electric and smooth cook-tops.
• Thaw foods in the refrigerator to reduce cooking time.
• Clean self-cleaning ovens immediately after use to take advantage of residual heat. First, clean off what you can by hand to hasten the process.
• Don't cook with the door open.
• Lining the oven with foil can reduce indoor air pollution by keeping the interior clean. Before doing this, however, check the owner's manual so as not to interfere with the oven's operation.

Washer/Dryer/Dishwasher

• Wash laundry in cold water when possible and always use a cold water rinse.
• Use dishwasher only when you have a full load.
• Dry only full loads of clothes.
• Clean dryer lint filter after every load.
• Use air-dry option on dishwasher when possible.

Water Heating

The third largest energy expense in the typical home, accounting for about 15 percent of your utility bill. Here are some tips to help you save on water heating:

• Use less hot water. Use a cold water wash in your washing machine whenever possible, and always use a cold water rinse.
• Turn down the thermostat on your water heater to 120 degrees if your dishwasher has a built-in heating element. If you do not have a dishwasher, 115 degrees is adequate.
• Install an insulated water heater blanket if the unit is located in an unheated area.
• Install low-flow shower heads and faucet adaptors to save 3 to 4 gallons of hot water per minute.
• Repair or replace leaky faucets; one drip per second results in the loss of 700 gallons of water per year.
• Drain a quart of water from your water heater tank every three months to remove sediment to lengthen the life of the lower heating element.

Windows

• Take advantage of sunlight as a natural heater. During the day, open window drapes to let warm sunshine heat rooms. Close them after dark to keep heat indoors. Hanging heavier drapes during the winter can give a room a facelift and allow the window coverings to conserve more heat.
• Caulk and weatherstrip doors and windows or tape clear plastic over windows to seal out cold drafts. These kits contain plastic film and double-faced tape and are available in various sizes. To shrink-fit the plastic to the window, use a hand-held hair dryer.
• Use foam sealant where plumbing pipes, ductwork, and electrical wires penetrate exterior walls, floors, ceilings, and soffits over cabinets.