Energy Tips
Save energy this Winter:
- Replace incandescent light bulbs with ENERGY STAR compact fluorescent light bulbs, especially in high-use light fixtures. Compact fluorescent lights use 75 percent less energy than incandescent lights.
- When buying new appliances, choose ENERGY STAR-certified models. A new ENERGY STAR refrigerator uses about 20 percent less energy than a standard new refrigerator, and 46 percent less than one made in 1980. A new Energy Star® clothes washer uses nearly 50 percent less energy than a standard washer.
- Install a programmable thermostat. Setback thermostats can save up to 15 percent on energy costs.
- Increase ceiling insulation. If your ceiling is not insulated or needs more insulation, you can reduce heating costs by 5-25 percent by increasing your insulation to up to R-38.
- Set your thermostat as low as is comfortable in the winter. For every degree you lower the thermostat, you can save 3% on your heating bill. You should also turn down your thermostat 5 to 10 degrees at bedtime.
- Clean or change your furnace filter monthly so that your furnace doesn’t have to work as hard.
- Remove furniture or items that block heating vents.
- Make the most of natural sunlight in the winter by opening window coverings on south-facing windows to warm your home.
- Weather-strip doors and windows that do not seal tightly. Use foam gaskets around electrical outlets (under the plates) to reduce drafts.
- Activate your computer's power management features, so it powers down when sitting idle.
- Close the door and isolate unused rooms in your home to reduce the overall space you heat.
You can cut your energy costs when you make small changes…
- Many people still believe that electronic equipment; (i.e.: computers) last longer if you never turn them off. This is a misconception that is carried over from the days of older mainframe computers.
- Many appliances continue to draw a small amount of power when they are switched off. These "phantom" loads occur in most appliances that use electricity, such as stereos, DVD/VCRs, televisions, computers, and kitchen appliances.
- 75% of the electricity used to power home electronics in the average home is consumed while the products are turned off. You can save energy by unplugging the appliance or using a power strip to turn the power on and off.
- An ENERGY STAR qualified computer uses 70% less electricity than computers without enabled power management features. If your computer is old, buying a new one could save you energy.
- Replace incandescent bulbs with compact florescent light bulbs. They can pay for themselves in a little over a year.
Long Term Energy Improvements
- When buying new appliances, check the energy rating. Always buy an Energy Star rated appliance. You may qualify for a WMGLD rebate.
- Install thermal or storm windows or double-paned windows. A less-expensive alternative is plastic sheeting that can be temporarily fastened over doors and windows to prevent drafts and retain heat.
- Conduct a home energy audit on your own. You can access the US Department of Energy at www.homeenergysaver.lbl.gov for a do-it-yourself home energy audit feature.
- See if you qualify for an audit conducted as part of the WMGLD incentive and rebate program administered through the Massachusetts Municipal Wholesale Electric Company’s (MMWEC), Home Energy Loss Prevention Service (HELPS) program. Customers may ask questions through the energy hotline at 888-333-7525 or 888-335-7203, or via the Internet at www.munihelps.org.
- Check to see if the attic and basement have the recommended levels of insulation.
General Safety Tips
- Never leave a light socket empty. If you can’t replace a burned out bulb right away, leave it in the socket until you can.
- Use plastic safety plugs in outlets that are seldom used.
- Fans and electric heaters should be placed out of a child’s reach.
- Always unplug an appliance by the plug, not by pulling the cord.
- Never replace a blown fuse with a copper penny or wrap one in aluminum foil.
- Keep power tools in a dry place. Dampness can increase the possibility of shocks.
- If your lights dim and motor on appliances sometimes slow down, your home may not be adequately wired.
- All outdoor outlets should have ground fault interrupters.
- Electric power tools should not be used in the rain, or on wet surfaces, near a sprinkler or pool.
- Stay away from areas marked Danger: High Voltage!
- Never place electrical cords under carpets.
- Never climb a tree near electrical lines.