Stay Warm, Save Energy, & Money
- For each degree that you lower your thermostat during the winter, you can save approximately 1 to 2% percent on your heating costs.
- Wear heavier clothing indoors during cold winter days. Layering clothes helps trap heat near your body so the rest of the house doesn’t need to be as warm.
- Add an extra blanket to your bed.
Energy Efficiency Tips
- Consider a programmable thermostat to enhance your comfort and save on energy costs. Scheduling specific times for your heating/cooling system to run can reduce energy consumption and save 10-20% annually on utility bills.
- Keep doors and heat registers open, this will allow your heating system to distribute warm air evenly across rooms, improving comfort and efficiency.
- Open drapes and/or shades on sunny days to let in the sun’s heat. Close them at night and on a cloudy day.
- Close your fireplace damper when not in use.
- Heating with portable space heaters can be costly. Use them sparingly in areas of your home not adequately heated by your central heating system.
- Set the thermostat in your water heater to 120 degrees F to save energy and reduce heating costs without sacrificing comfort.
- Use appliances such as dishwashers, washing machines, and clothes dryers only when they are full.
- When you are ready to replace an appliance, purchase an ENERGY STAR model. ENERGY STAR rated appliances are 15% to 40% more efficient than older models and will save you energy for years to come.
- When not in use, turn off home office equipment, including computers, monitors, and printers.
Energy Consultations
Complimentary energy consults are available to our residential and commercial members. For information on energy saving incentives, or to schedule a free energy consult, contact the Energy Efficiency Department at (541) 536-2126 ext. 5, or email.