Conservation Tips

1. Turn off lights and equipment when they are not in use
2. Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) wherever appropriate. CFLs utilize ⅓ the energy of regular incandescent bulbs.
3. During the heat of day, close your drapes, shades or blinds to reduce the extra heat from direct sunlight and check your home for adequate insulation.
4. Plant shade trees, to cool your house and reduce the need for air conditioning.
5. Install / Use ceiling fans or whole house fans for comfort cooling.
6. Set your air-conditioner thermostat to 78 degrees or higher in the summer.
7. Install a programmable thermostat to adjust the temperature automatically and maximize your energy savings.
8. Clean or replace your air-conditioner's filter(s) every month to keep your air-conditioner running more efficiently.
9. Regularly brush or vacuum the condenser coils at the bottom or rear of your refrigerator and check door gasket for tight fit and adjust if necessary.
10. Buy energy-saving "Energy Star" labeled appliances and products.
11. Limit the time you run your pool pump to six hours a day in the summer.
12. To conserve water do not water lawn(s) on windy days or during the hottest part of the day, when evaporation is highest.
13. Check your sprinklers for proper operation. Make sure you are watering your lawn and not the sidewalk or street. Repair leaks.
14. Adding new plants to your yard ?, Consider native and other drought tolerant plants that need 2/3 less water.
15. Be aware of the "Energy Vampires." These are appliances that use energy even when you think they are not. Any appliance with a clock or "quick on" is using energy. Unplug these appliances when not in use or use a surge protector that can be switched off.
16. Lower the temperature on your water heater.
17. Wash only full loads of clothes or dishes.
18. Check to see that your fireplace damper is closed tightly to hold cool air in when the fireplace is not in use.