CONSERVATION

Follow these tips to help reduce your energy use:

Water Heater

  • Lower the temperature setting on your water heater to 120 degrees.
  • Check your owner's manual if you have a dishwasher. Certain model dishwashers require a higher temperature to clean effectively.
  • Fix leaky faucets.
  • Install low volume showerheads and faucets if you have an older home. Newer homes are required to have these restricted flow devices as part of the building code.
  • Install a water heater insulation wrap around the sides of the water heater. Never put insulation on the top of the heater or near the bottom.
  • Use the proper water level setting on your clothes washer for the size load of clothes. This helps save on your water bill too.

Clothes Dryer

  • Separate heavier clothes (towels, heavy cottons) from the lightweight fabrics (synthetics) for more efficient drying.
  • Only do full loads, but be sure not to overload the dryer.
  • Select the proper setting and time for the type and size load.
  • Clean the lint filter before every load. Refer to your owner's manual.
  • Don't add wet clothes during the drying cycle.
  • Don't over-dry clothes. Use the automatic moisture control if your dryer has one, or select the appropriate amount of time on the automatic timer.
  • Be sure the outside vent is free of any obstructions and the vent cover fully opens when the dryer is in use.

Cooking

  • Cover pots and pans with lids when cooking.
  • Cook food at high heat to bring to temperature then reduce to complete cooking.
  • Adjust the flame to fit the bottom of the pot or pan. Turning up the flame beyond the bottom only wastes energy.
  • Keep burner surfaces clean.

Heating

  • Add insulation to the attic.
  • Lower the thermostat when no one is home.
  • Install a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature each day.
  • Clean or replace all filters at least once per month.
  • Have the system inspected and maintained regularly.
  • Keep all heating and return vents free of all obstructions for proper air flow.

For more information:
American Gas Association: http://www.aga.org/
National Association of Home Builders: http://www.nahb.org/
U.S. Department of Energy: http://www.eren.doe.gov/

Call us today at 706-743-8484 and let us get you started today!