Energy Saving Tips

Turn off lights when you leave a room or when they aren't needed. Install energy-efficient compact fluorescent lights. These give off less heat and use as much as 75% less energy than regular bulbs. Keep bulbs and lighting fixtures clean for maximum lighting output. Pull the plug on instant-on appliances(such as televisions) when you don't plan to use them for a few days or more. They draw current even when they're switched off. Use task lighting directed at a specific area instead of overhead or general lighting. Turn off unnecessary lights since much of the energy used is given off as heat that your air-conditioner will have to work harder to compensate for. Keep windows clean so daylight can come through better and you will use fewer lights. Install outdoor motion detectors to light walkways and outdoor areas. This spares the expense of leaving floodlights on all the time. Install electronic timers to control fans, heat lamps and indoor and outdoor lights. You can program these to remain on for a specified interval and then shut off. Install occupancy sensors to automatically switch on lights when a person enters a room and off after the area is unoccupied. These are ideal for walk-in closets and hallways,laundry rooms, basements, work areas, tool sheds and garages-- all the places where lights may be needlessly left on for hours or even days at a time. Install dimmer switches in place oflight switches. Dimmers not only enhance the atmosphere of a room, but also use less electricity. For example,a light bulb at 50% brightness uses approximately 40% less electricity. A dimmer switch also extends the life of your bulbs. A bulb at 50% brightness will last approximately 20 times longer. Use an energy calculator to calculate your monthly or annual energy use. Home Energy Saver Energy Calculator Tri-State Energy Calculator Use Propane Energy Savings Calculator