More Home Energy-Saving Tips

Computers, printers, air conditioners, TVs, VCRs, DVD and CD players, fax machines, blow dryers, microwaves... We’re more "plugged in" than ever before. By 2015, consumer electronics and small appliances will account for almost 30 percent of all household electricity use. As the cost of energy continues to increase, the cost for being so plugged in will become more apparent.

Average households will spend more than $5,000 on energy in 2006 to power their homes and vehicles, projects the Alliance to Save Energy.

Forgetful? A programmable thermostat automatically coordinates indoor climates with your daily and weekend patterns. And you don't have to remember to turn the air conditioning or heating off when you won't be home.

Look for the ENERGY STAR label, the symbol for energy efficiency, when shopping for room air conditioners other heating and cooling equipment, major appliances, lighting, home office equipment, windows, and electronics. Find retailers near you by checking online at: http://www.energystar.gov.

Install appropriate insulation for our climate, and seal air leaks to increase your comfort, making your home quieter and cleaner.

Do online “window-shopping” at: www.efficientwindows.org. Discover how high-performance Energy Star windows can increase comfort and reduce heating and cooling costs by as much as 30 percent.

Here’s more:

• When refinancing your home, consider including energy-efficiency home improvements. Your interest may be tax deductible.
• Switch to cold water washing of laundry and save up to $63 a year.
• Close blinds or shades on the south- and west-facing windows during the day or install shading devices such as trellises or awnings.
• Turn off everything not in use: lights, TVs, computers.

Many additional tips and free resources for all types of home and vehicle energy use can be found on the Alliance to Save Energy consumer web site www.ase.org/consumers.

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