Boy, the summer of 2023 is already shaping up to be HOT!!
Now seems like a good time to review a few energy saving tips. So here are just a few hints from the CPS Energy website.
Air Conditioning
- Use fans. They make a room feel 4° to 6° cooler.
- Run your ceiling fan blades in a counter-clockwise direction (looking up at fan.)
- Close blinds or drapes on windows that get direct sunlight. Shade your outside AC units or condensers.
- Set your air conditioning to be 5° warmer when you’re gone for more than 4 hours.
- Avoid setting thermostat at a colder setting than normal when you return. It will not cool your home down any faster and it wastes energy.
- Keep your thermostat within a 20-degree margin of the outside temperature. If the difference between the outside temperature and your thermostat setting is more than 20 degrees then your air conditioner will run non-stop!
- Limit use of vent fans above your stove and bathroom because they pull in hot outside air, making your AC work harder.
- Have your system inspected by a licensed and bonded professional at least twice a year, spring and fall.
Water Heating
- Take short showers or shallow baths.
- Use cold water as much as possible when using a dishwasher or washing machine.
- Buy a high-efficiency washing machine when you need a new washer.
- Recommended water heater setting for our area is 120 degrees. Also check the unit for possible leaks.
- Wrap an old water heater with an insulation jacket to decrease its heat loss. Insulating the water pipes also can help.
- Don’t leave hot water running when shaving or rinsing dishes. This reduces the amount of energy to heat the water.
- Wait to wash dishes and clothes until you have a full load.
Lighting
- Turn off lights in unoccupied rooms.
- Using a small light when reading is more efficient than brightly lighting an entire room.
- Keep your light bulbs clean & free from dust.
- CFLs and LEDs are great for use in outdoor lighting fixtures that are sometimes left on for a long time and may be exposed to weather.