Tip Energy

[David Hogan]

Be Cool - Keep lights off whenever possible. The standard light bulb gives off 90% heat and 10% light – heat that makes you air conditioner run more. Switch to CFLs which give off 10% heat, use up to 75% less power than incandescents, and reduces your electricity bill.

 

[David Hogan]

Be Cool – 2 - Keep curtains and blinds drawn on windows hit by direct sunlight. Direct sunlight. Direct sunlight shining into a room can raise temperatures degrees or more very quickly. Consider adding reflective window treatments available at local hardware stores. The treatments will reflect about 70% of the sun’s heat and 99% of the ultra violet to prevent furniture fading but still allow a view out. These measures will keep you cooler and lower your electricity consumption.

 

[David Hogan]

Be Cool – 3 – Fans circulating air around you can make you feel 2-3 degrees cooler and allow you to raise your AC thermostat setting. Every degree higher can save up to $90 a summer. Old refrigerators are not as efficient as newer models. Consider upgrading to a new Energy Star model that will not generate as much heat as it refrigerates. Visit www.austinenergy.com or call 974-7827 to see how rebates may help fund your upgrade.