The higher the heat soars this summer, the
more you'll pay for electricity. You can
keep your costs under control by
implementing a few simple conservation
measures around the house:
Set your air conditioner thermostat
at 78 degrees or higher. For every
degree you set the thermostat below 78
degrees, you use 3 to 5 percent more
electricity.
Change or clean your air conditioner
filter once a month. Dirty filters
reduce efficiency by restricting
airflow.
Close drapes during the day to keep
heat-producing sunlight out.
Avoid using the stove or oven on hot
days. Instead, use the microwave, grill
outdoors or serve a cold summer meal.
Adjust your dishwasher so dishes dry
without heat.
Close the damper on your fireplace.
Clear outdoor air conditioning units
and heat pumps of debris and shrubbery
so they can work more efficiently.
Vacation Time?
Before you pack the suitcases
and the kids into the car, prepare your
house for your absence:
Shut off the inside
water.Even in summer, pipes can burst or
leak, letting water gush until you get
home. There's no need to drain the
pipes.
Even if your
appliances and computers are plugged
into power strips, unplug them.
Set your central air
conditioning system at 78 degrees rather
than turning it off so the house won't
get humid enough to promote mildew
growth in the basement or upstairs
ceilings.
Set indoor and
outdoor lights on timers so it appears
your house is occupied at various
intervals.
Don't pull all the
shades down, your home will appear
closed up, telling passers-by that no
one is home.
Electric power can go out whether it's warm
or cold outside. Some of the same procedures
apply during warm weather as well as cold:
Unplug computers, TV's, stereo equipment and
other sensitive appliances to avoid surge
damage when power is restored. Leave one
light switch on so you'll know when power is
back on.
Keep a flashlight, fresh batteries, candles
and matches on hand. Candles are a useful
light source but are also a fire hazard.
Kerosene lamps have protected flames and are
a better option. During the day, open
curtains and shades to let in natural light.
Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed
as much as possible to prevent food
spoilage. A closed refrigerator will stay
cold up to 12 hours.
Stock water supplies to last at least 3
days. Calculate at least one gallon per
person per day. Keep enough nonperishable
food on hand to last several days. Don't
forget a manual can opener. Include
disposable plates, cups and utensils.
Families with a baby should always keep a
supply of baby food and disposable diapers.
If you have a back-up generator, equip it
with a double-throw switch that will
disconnect your home's circuits from the
REC's service. If you turn on the generator,
throw the switch.
