Resources/Local Tools
Resources
- Energy Star
- Federal Tax Credits
- RESNET
- Illinois Association of Energy Raters
- Elmhurst Energy & Emissions Profile
Local Tools
- Illinois Home Weatherization Assistance Program (IHWAP)
- The Elmhurst Public Library has an energy audit tool available for checkout.
- The Black & Decker Thermal Leak Detector is used to spot hidden energy leaks in your home.
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