Medium Energy Savings Tips
Have a little more time or money to invest in reducing your energy
consumption? Here are some tips to help.
Lighting
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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.
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Consider installing sensors on outdoor lights to save electricity
when no one is present.
Air Leaks
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Install a door sweep to block air from coming under the door.
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Install foam gaskets behind electrical outlets and switch plates on
walls.
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Close-fitting, insulated drapes can keep drafts at bay and in the
summer block the hot sun.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Have your heating and cooling system professionally checked
annually. Your system will perform better and last longer with
proper maintenance.
Appliances
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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.
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Arrange to dispose of old secondary refrigerators, which might be
using twice as much electricity as newer models.