Resources/Local Tools

 

 

Resources


Local Tools


Other Energy Saving Tips – Energy Saving Tips to Fit your Budget

 

 

 Low Cost & Personal Choices

  • Change air filters monthly
  • Replace incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescents – they use 75% less energy and last 10 times longer
  • Fix any leaky faucets – one drop per second can add up to 165 gallons a month
  • Tune-up your heating and cooling system annually to keep it running as efficiently as possible
  • Use power strips for home electronics and turn off power strips when equipment is not in use
  • Replace worn-out seals on your refrigerator and freezer
  • Perform a do-it-yourself home energy audit.
  • Reduce hot water use by taking shorter showers and using cold water for the rinse cycle in your washer
  • Turn off lights, televisions and other appliances when not in use
  • Clean refrigerator coils regularly to keep compressor running efficiently
  • Set the refrigerator temperature at 36° to 39° F and freezer at 0° to 5° F
  • 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
  • Run your dishwasher and clothes washer only when full
  • Match the size of your pot or pan to the size of the burner
  • Make sure your 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
  • Install foam gaskets behind electric-outlet and switch-plate covers
  • Dry one load of clothes immediately after another to minimize heat loss
  • Defrost frozen food in the refrigerator before cooking
  • Use the oven light to check on progress when cooking or baking
  • Keep your outside air unit clean and clear of debris or weeds
  • Use low-watt bulbs where lighting is not critical
  • Place floor lamps and hanging lamps in corners. The reflection off the walls will give you more light
  • Turn off outdoor lighting during the day. Try timer switches or photoelectric controls if the finger method is a bother
  • 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
  • Hang on to appliance manuals so you can refer to them for care information and possible energy-saving tips
  • Close fireplace dampers
  • Drive sensibly

 

 

Retrofit & More Expensive Energy Savings Ideas
  • Hire a professional energy auditor
  • Hire a qualified contractor for the improvements identified in the audit.
  • Caulk and weatherstrip around windows and doors to stop air leaks
  • Seal gaps in floors and walls around pipes and electrical wiring
  • Install aerating, low-flow faucets and showerheads
  • Have your ductwork inspected and repair any leaks
  • Add insulation to your attic, crawl space and any accessible exterior walls
  • Wrap your water heater with insulation or install an insulating blanket
  • Look for the ENERGY STAR® label when replacing small appliances
  • Install foam gaskets behind electric-outlet and switch-plate covers

 

Major Improvements

  • Large ENERGY STAR® label appliances
  • Replace old Windows
  • Replace old Heating/AC systems
  • Install an Energy Efficient Roof

 

Renewable Improvements

  • Solar
  • Geothermal
  • Wind