Energy Conservation

Energy Conservation and Efficiency

The production of electricity results in one of the largest uses of water in the United States and generates a significant amount of air pollution that can be deposited onto our land and water bodies. Saving energy helps protect our river and saves you money!

According to Energy Star, nearly half of the energy typically used in your home is for heating and cooling.

  • During the summer, set your thermostat at 78 degrees or higher.
  • During the winter, set the thermostat at 68 degrees or lower.
  • Change air filters monthly to achieve maximum efficiency of your system.
  • Get a yearly tune-up for your cooling and heating system.
  • Install a programmable thermostat.
  • Weatherstrip windows and doors.
  • Seal and insulate your cooling and heating ducts.

Lighting accounts for approximately 12% of the energy used in a typical home.

  • Purchase compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs). CFLs will save you about $30 or more in electricity costs over each bulb’s lifetime.  They also produce about 75% less heat, helping to cut home cooling costs.
  • Don’t forget to turn off lights when you are not using them.

Water heating is responsible for 14% of home energy use. 

  • For older hot water heaters, wrap with an insulation blanket.
  • When replacing, install a tankless or solar water heater.
  • Set your hot water thermostat to 120 F or lower.
  • Wash clothes with cold water.
  • Turn off your electric hot water heater when on vacation.
  • Insulate your hot water pipes.

Other energy saving tips:

  • Unplug electronics, appliances, and chargers when not in use.  Appliances use 13% of energy and electronics use 4%.
  • Use a clothesline when possible.
  • Wash only full loads in your dishwasher and clothes washer.

Resources

Energy Star
tips, find Energy Star products, partners, and homebuilders

JEA – Go Green!
tips, rebate programs, and online energy audit

U.S. Department of Energy – Energy Savers
extensive tips, rebates and tax credits, do-it-yourself home energy assessment, and more