Home Owner Tips & Information
Water Conservation Tips
- Take Shorter Showers: Minimize hot water use by taking shorter showers and washing clothes in cold water.
- Full Loads Only: Use your dishwasher and washing machine only when they are fully loaded.
- Dry Clothes Naturally: Dry clothes in the sun (check your local covenants as clotheslines may be prohibited in some communities).
- Water Heater Setting: Set your water heater to 120 degrees to save energy.
- Cold Water for Garbage Disposal: Use cold water instead of hot when running the garbage disposal.
Heating and Cooling Efficiency
- Close Unused Rooms: Close doors to seldom-used rooms and turn off heating or air conditioning in these areas.
- Filter Maintenance: Clean or replace heater and air conditioner filters regularly. Keep outside vents free of leaves or debris.
- Exhaust Fan Usage: Use kitchen, bath, and other exhaust fans sparingly to avoid blowing away heated or cooled air.
- Fireplace Tips: Keep your fireplace damper closed unless you have a fire going. Lower your thermostat to 50-55 degrees when using the fireplace.
- Thermostat Management: Set your thermostat at the lowest comfortable level. Keep windows near the thermostat tightly closed to avoid overworking your furnace.
- Professional Maintenance: Have your heating system checked periodically by a professional.
- Insulation with Clothing: Use warm clothing to stay comfortable at cooler indoor temperatures.
- Air Conditioner Settings: Set your air conditioner thermostat as high as comfortably possible and avoid setting it lower than necessary.
- Fan Usage: Use fans in conjunction with window air conditioners and turn off window units when rooms are vacant for a few hours.
- Shade Windows: Use blinds or shades to keep out daytime sun and keep windows open on cooler days with a fan running.
Lighting and Appliance Usage
- Efficient Lighting: Keep lights off in vacant rooms and use large appliances during early morning or late evening.
- Kitchen Efficiency: Boil water in a covered pan for faster boiling, keep range top burners and reflectors clean, and turn off ovens and electric burners before cooking is done to utilize residual heat.
- Dishwasher Tips: Scrape dishes before loading, let dishes air dry, and avoid using the “rinse hold” for just a few soiled dishes.
Additional Energy-Saving Tips
- Window Management: Keep windows tightly closed near your thermostat.
- Routine Maintenance: Dust and vacuum radiator surfaces frequently to ensure efficient heat flow.
- Drapery Usage: Keep draperies and shades open in sunny windows during the day and close them at night.
- Proper Appliance Placement: Avoid placing lamps or TV sets near your air-conditioner thermostat to prevent unnecessary running time.
- Dress for Comfort: Dress appropriately for warmer indoor temperatures.
