Where your home’s energy dollars go?

• 45% heating & cooling
• 34% lighting, cooking & other appliances
• 13% water heating
• 8% refrigeration

Source: U.S. Department of Energy

Air Conditioning:

• For every degree you raise your thermostat setting above 72°F, you will save about 5‐7% on cooling costs. Set the thermostat at 78°F during the summer months.  Ceiling and room fans can help move cooled air inside the home and increase comfort levels.
• Cooking, bathing, laundering and dishwashing produce heat and humidity, making your air conditioner work harder.
• Use kitchen/stove and bathroom exhaust fans to remove heat and moisture.
• In summer, close window coverings during the day.  When selecting window treatments, consider thermal‐lined draperies or shades, keeping the heat out and the cool air in during summer.
• Evaluate the un‐cooled areas of your home, such as the attic, garage and unfinished basements. Keep these areas closed, weather‐stripped and properly insulated to reduce energy waste.

Lighting:

• Use compact fluorescent bulbs; they use up to 75% less energy and last 10 times longer than regular bulbs.
• Turn off interior & exterior lights when not in use. Use photo electric cells or timers on indoor & outdoor safety lighting.
• Install and use dimmers, increasing bulb life and saving energy.

Water:

• Lower water temperatures from 140°F to 120°F on your water heater.
• When going on vacation, lower the temperature on your water heater. Many newer water heaters have vacation settings.
• Take showers instead of baths; showers on average use 50% less water.
• Install energy efficient showerheads – one 10‐minute shower per day with an energy efficient showerhead can save 10,000 gallons of water a year.
• Install faucet aerators/flow restrictors in kitchens and baths; these can save 4,000 gallons of water a year.
• Limit running hot water when washing hands, brushing teeth, shaving or hand‐washing dishes.
• Run the dishwasher and clothes washer when full, using the energy‐saving cycle whenever possible. Use the air dry option on the dishwasher.
• Consider using cold or warm settings on your clothes washer, and always rinse with cold water.

Information source: www.bge.com