Sunday, March 29, 2009

Here are a bunch of energy tips from BGE - I am working on some simple marker like illustrations

Tips
Cool Tips for Saving Energy

You can save money on your energy bills by following these energy saving practices:
  • Keep cool air in and hot air out by sealing openings such as cracks in walls and around windows and doors.
  • If you have a fireplace, close the flue damper when it's not in use. The use of a wood burning fireplace can actually draw heat out of the home - unless you have glass doors or an insert.
  • If you don't have storm or thermal windows, cover the inside of your windows tightly with plastic from a discount or hardware store.
  • Caulk or weatherstrip around doors and windows to seal out cold air. In addition to potential cost savings, a well-sealed home will make the interior space more comfortable.
  • Add draft-sealers around electric switches and outlets.
  • Use oil, gas, kerosene or wood-burning stoves only when properly vented to the outdoors.
  • Remove window air conditioning units to reduce drafts. If this isn't possible, cover all sides of the unit to minimize leakage.
  • Don't forget that computers, fax machines,TV's, VCR's, CD players, cable boxes, cassette decks also consume energy because of their standby features. Some will continue to consume energy even when turned off if they are plugged in. Consider unplugging when you leave home or go on vacation.
  • Activate the ''sleep'' feature on home office equipment (personal computer, fax, printer and scanner) which automatically minimizes power consumption when not in use.
  • If you have a pool, remember that it too consumes energy - consider a pool cover to minimize the operation of the circulation pump.


Here are some other helpful tips for saving energy this summer:

  • Have a professional perform routine maintenance on your heat pump or central
    air conditioning unit, and have any problems repaired right away.
  • Change or replace air filters monthly.
  • If you have central air conditioning, for every degree you raise your thermostat setting
    above 72°F, you will save about 5-7% on cooling costs.
  • Set the thermostat at 78°F or higher during the summer months.
  • Close blinds during the day to block heat, and open them at night to let heat escape.
  • Consider using fans, which use much less power, as an alternative to an air conditioner.
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