Using Electricity Wisely

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the amount of energy consumed to heat and cool the typical home, keep water hot and food refrigerated, has actually decreased over the last fifteen years because of energy efficient equipment. But despite this increased efficiency, our nation is actually using more energy due to consumer demand for the latest in technology and convenience and a growing array of products such as kitchens gadgets, hot tubs, home office equipment and digital entertainment systems - all dependent on electricity.

When we use electricity wisely, everyone benefits - you save money and help protect the environment. Here are some simple ways to reduce your energy use:

• Clean refrigerator coils regularly to keep the compressor operating efficiently. Found at the back or the bottom of the refrigerator, the coils should be vacuumed and checked at least twice a year.
• Use the microwave when possible - it cooks faster and doesn't create as much heat as a stove burner.
• Air-dry dishes instead of using the dishwasher's heat drying option.
• Turn off lights, televisions and other appliances when not in use.
• Match the size of your pot or pan to the size of the burner.
• Make sure your clothes dryer's outside vent is clear and clean the lint filter after every load.
• Keep all windows and doors located near your thermostat closed tightly.
• Keep heat sources such as lamps and appliances away from your thermostat.
• Dry one load of clothes immediately after another to minimize heat loss.
• Use low-wattage bulbs where lighting is not crucial.
• Place floor lamps and hanging lamps in room corners. The reflection off the walls will give off more light.
• Keep your freezer full. The fuller the freezer, the less cold air you lose when opening the door.
• Use the self-cleaning cycle of your oven right after you finish baking. That will give it a head start in heating up.
• Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescents - they use 70 percent less energy and can last up to 10 years.
• Fix any leaky faucets - one drop per second can add up to 165 gallons a month.
• Have your ductwork inspected and repair any leaks.
• Use power strips for home electronics and use the switch on the power strip to turn off everything connected.
• Reduce hot water use by taking shorter showers.
• Operate your dish and clothes washer only when full. Rinse clothes in cold water.
• Use the oven light to check progress when cooking or baking instead of opening the oven door. Every time you open the oven door, you lose about 25° F of heat.
• Turn the water off while brushing your teeth, lathering your hands with soap, or scrubbing dishes.
• Open blinds and curtains during the day to take advantage of natural light.
• If you plan to redecorate, think about using lighter colors which reflect light. Dark colors do not reflect light, so you will need more lamps to brighten the room.
• Lamp shades make a big difference. A lamp with a light colored shade, especially one that is lined in white, will five the best light. Tall, narrow shades or short, dark-colored shades let less light through.
• Dirty or dusty light bulbs don't put out as much light as clean bulbs, because dirt and dust absorb light.
• Proper maintenance helps your air conditioner run more efficiently. Replace disposable filters or clean permanent filters every few months during the cooling season. It's a good idea to have your entire system checked on an annual basis by a qualified HVAC contractor.
• Use the sun to dry your clothes. It's free, and the only energy it requires is your own to hang them on the line.
• If you're baking breads or cakes, preheating your oven may be necessary. But for most foods (casseroles and broiled items) preheating simply isn't necessary. It's an energy and money waster.
• An oven that is free of grease and baked-on residue will work more efficiently.
• If you thaw your frozen foods completely before cooking, your oven won't have to work so hard to cook your meal.