Keeping Cool while Saving Energy
• Unused rooms should be closed off to cut cooling costs.
In the Kitchen
• Convection ovens consume up to one-third less energy than standard ovens.
• Run the dishwasher only when you have a full load.
• Vacuum your refrigerator's cooling coils every three months.
• Make sure there are no gaps in the refrigerator door seal.
• Don't overfill your refrigerator-freezer; cool air needs to circulate freely throughout the interior of the appliance.
• Get rid of old refrigerators. An inefficient refrigerator with an ill-fitting door can cost hundreds of dollars per year to operate.
• Your freezer works best when it is filled to capacity. Place covered plastic water-filled containers in your freezer for maximum efficiency, and buy the smallest model that will meet your needs.
Energy Savings Year Round
• Caulking and weather-stripping will keep cool air in during the summer.
• Have your central air conditioning (AC) system serviced each spring.
• Clean or replace AC and furnace filters once a month or as needed, and seal holes around plumbing and heating pipes.
• Install a programmable thermostat. You can save money by keeping your house warmer than normal when you're out, and keeping the setting at 78 F when you're home.
• When going on vacation, set your air conditioner at 85 degrees, or turn it off completely in moderate climates. Turn off or unplug major appliances you won't be using, except your refrigerator and freezer. Turn an electric water heater off or a gas water heater to the pilot setting.
• Clean the clothes dryer filter after each load, and clean the dryer duct regularly. Clogged filters and ducts restrict airflow, decrease energy efficiency and can be a fire hazard.
Have a great summer! Keep cool and save energy!
Latest Articles