Energy Consumers: Seasonal Checklist

Tips For Spring

Turn off the lights whenever you leave a room in your house.
Turn off the radio, TV, computer and video games when you stop using them.
Check for problems Mom and Dad haven’t seen like dripping faucets. It takes energy to heat the water.
Decide what you want from the refrigerator before opening the door then close the door quickly afterwards.
Cold in the house? Try wearing a sweatshirt or sweater instead of turning up the thermostat.

Install a programmable thermostat. Make sure it is programmed to automatically turn down the heating or cooling when you are not home and when you are sleeping.
Keep cool without air conditioning by using fans. At night they help rid the house of heat from the daytime sun.
Close shades and windows during the day. At night open windows opposite one another for cross ventilation.
Use ceiling fans. They make you feel about four degrees cooler than the actual temperature.
Set thermostat at 78 degrees or higher if you use ceiling fans. You save 3%-5% on your air conditioning cost for each degree you raise the thermostat.
Clean filters. Check furnace and air filters monthly or as recommended by the manufacturer. Clean or replace them as needed.
Use the “auto fan” setting.
Buy an ENERGY STAR air conditioner. It can save 10% over the one that doesn’t have the label. However, have an air conditioning technician or energy auditor determine the right size unit for the space.