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TextBraddock District Environmental Updates
Drafting of New Fairfax Stormwater Ordinance Progresses
Fairfax County is preparing a Stormwater Management Ordinance in
response to state regulations requiring localities to adopt ordinances
and take over reviews and inspections for Virginia Stormwater Management
Program (VSMP) general permits relating to stormwater runoff from
construction sites effective July 1, 2014.
Many processes, systems, ordinance changes and training of staff and
industry, in addition to a written stormwater management ordinance, will
need to occur in order for us to be ready for the effective date. A
series of meetings with stakeholders is being held to gather information
that will be used in developing the new county ordinance and design and
construction standards for stormwater control practices.
To learn more about stakeholder meetings and provide input as the county
moves through the process of writing and adopting a county Stormwater
Management Ordinance, go to the following website: http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/dpwes/stormwaterordinance.htm
Energy Saving Tips for the Winter Weather Ahead
With cold weather beginning to settle into the region, and rumors of
a cold winter ahead, here are some suggestions you can take to minimize
energy consumption in your home.
Lighting
Install dimmers on indoor lights to give you more control over the
brightness of your rooms and save electricity when lights are turned
lower. Before installing, check that the light bulbs are compatible with
the dimmers.
Consider installing sensors on outdoor lights to save electricity when
no one is present.
Air Leaks
Install a door sweep to block air from coming under the door.
Install foam gaskets behind electrical outlets and switch plates on
walls.
Close-fitting, insulated drapes can keep drafts at bay and in the summer
block the hot sun.
If you aren’t able to upgrade your drafty, single-pane windows,
attaching heavy-duty clear plastic sheeting during the winter can keep
cold air out and warm air in.
Heating and Cooling
Control the temperature of your home with a programmable thermostat,
which can automatically adjust the temperature based on different time
schedules. For example, during the winter months set it to lower the
temperature during weekdays when your family is out and raise it on
weekends when you’re home.
Clean any radiators, baseboard heaters or warm-air registers to help
them deliver temperature-controlled air more efficiently. Be sure that
they are not blocked by furniture, carpeting or drapes.
Dirty filters make heating and cooling systems less efficient, using
more energy for the same results. Clean or replace filters regularly
(check your owner’s manual for guidelines), especially during the hottest
and coldest months.
Have your heating and cooling system professionally checked annually.
Your system will perform better and last longer with proper
maintenance.
Appliances
To make sure your refrigerator door seals are airtight, close the
door over one-half of a piece of paper and then try to pull the paper
out. If it comes out easily, you may need to adjust the latch or replace
the seal to ensure air doesn’t escape.
Arrange to dispose of old secondary refrigerators, which might be using
twice as much electricity as newer models.
For more ideas, go to Energy Action Fairfax: http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/energyactionfairfax/
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