Transform the way you use energy by implementing a few of these quick and easy tips!
1. Report lights left on when not needed to your base energy team. Automatic controls or a different type of lighting system may fix the problem. If you can’t find a light switch, report it.
2. When the weather permits, open windows to take the place of air conditioning. Turn off window air conditioners when you leave a room for several hours.
3. Use natural daylighting and reduce or eliminate artificial lighting when possible.
4. Close your blinds and drapes at night in the winter to keep the cold air out.
5. Don’t set your thermostat at a colder setting than normal when you turn your air conditioner on. It will NOT cool faster. It WILL cool to a lower temperature than you need and use more energy.
6. If you plan to leave for a few minutes or more, turn the fan off. Letting it run wastes energy and does nothing to cool the room—in fact, the heat from the motor actually warms the room a little.
7. Set the fan speed of your central air conditioner on high except in very humid weather. When it’s humid, set the speed on low; you will get less cooling but more moisture will be removed from the air which will make it feel cooler.
8. Don’t speed. For every mile-per-hour over 55 mph, the average vehicle loses almost two percent in gas mileage.
9. Use the sun’s energy to dry your clothes when the weather permits. The energy’s free, and your clothes smell fresher.
10. Conduct a simple do-it-yourself energy audit of your home or office to pinpoint where energy is being lost.
