Residential Energy Conservation Tips

Home > News > Conservation & Safety Tips > Energy Tips > Residential Tips

Air Conditioning:

• Set  thermostat on air con units to 76° Fahrenheit;
• Turn off air conditioner unit systems when not home;
• Keep unoccupied rooms closed to reduce the amount of wasted cool air;
• Close windows and doors when air con units are in use;
• Keep filters clean every week and do not block air flow to grills;
• Consider using an interior fan to help circulate cool air;
• Purchase energy efficient air conditioning units;
• Remove sources of heat away from air conditioning units;
• Shade exterior condensor units if possible with plants while not preventing air flow;
• Keep condensor coils clean of mold, mildew and dirt with regular cleaning.

Lighting:

• Turn off lights not being used or unnecessary;
• Use task lighting versus area lighting when possible;
• Keep lamps and fixtures clean, this increases illumination and reduces heat insulation from dust;
• Maximize use of natural light when possible;
• Install fluorescent or compact fluorescent bulbs versus incandescent bulbs.

Refrigeration:

• Clean coils located on the back or underside of your refrigerator;
• Allow three (3) inches of space between your refrigerator and the wall, the circulation of air helps the coils radiate heat better;   
• Defrost manual and partial defrost freezers when frost/ice builds up to inch thick. A build-up of ice on the coil inside the unit makes the compressor run longer to maintain a cold temperature;
• Thaw food in the refrigerator. While thawing, it helps to keep the refrigerator  cool;
• Allow hot food to cool before placing in the refrigerator. Hot food will raise the temperature in the refrigerator, thus increasing its energy use;
• Open the refrigerator/freezer door only as often, and as long, as necessary;
• Replace worn seals.
• Cover or seal all liquids and moist foods before placing them in the refrigerator. Moisture from uncovered food can cause an automatic defrost refrigerator/freezer to use more energy;
• Fill pitchers to maximize cooling benefits. Cold water retains cold temperatures rather than cold air;
• Follow manufacturers recommendations for efficient use of your refrigeration appliance.

Major Appliances:

• Utilize your major appliances such as air con, electric dryer, electric stove, according to a schedule for use within your home;
• Avoid running your major appliances at the same time, i.e. turn off air conditioner while you dry your clothes in an electric dryer;
• Use a clothes line to dry clothes instead of an electric dryer;
• Consider purchasing gas operated appliances versus electric appliances;
• Keep your major appliances in good operational condition;

Roofing Tips:

• Keep your roof clean of debris, i.e. leaves etc., and keep drains clear;
• Weatherize your roof by removing algae build up with bleach and water blasting;
• Paint your roof with primer and insulation/roofing paint;
• Inspect your roof periodically, every six months, to maximize cooling benefits by removing debris and cleaning up algae;
• Consult with roofing experts about the most economical method for your budget to save on electric utility costs.

Windows:

• Install awnings on south and west facing windows for more shade;
• Consider light shading or tint to reduce direct sunlight when possible;
• Close curtains on south and west facing windows;
• Install tight fitting insulation window shades to avoid cooling costs;
• Properly insulate or caulk cracks on window seals to prevent cool air from escaping;
• Consider using white colored window shades, curtains or drapes to reflect sunlight.