How Do You Use Energy?

Approximate average monthly kilowatt-hour (kWh) Usage:

**Based on a 1,500 sq. foot home. Homes differ in usage according to size, climate, construction, insulation, and family living habits.
***Based on a 3-ton Unit running 10hrs/day for 30 days.

What is a Kilowatt-Hour?

Electric power is measured in watts. All electrical appliances and light bulbs are sized, or rated, in watts. The term kilowatts mean 1,000 watts. A kilowatt-hour is 1,000 watts of power used for one hour. One kilowatt-hour will run a 100-watt light bulb for 10 hours.

Energy Saving Tips

• Replace old incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescents
• Use photocells and motion sensors on exterior lights to increase security
• Do consecutive loads of laundry to take advantage of residual heat in the dryer
• For cooling keep thermostat at 78 degrees when home and 85 degrees when away
• Install a programmable thermostat
• Turn off any unneeded lights, computers, copiers, appliances
• Consider insulating, caulking, weather stripping
• Consider installing new windows in older homes
• Close damper on chimney after a fire

Heating and cooling are the home’s highest costs. Here are some tips to consider.

• Check forced-air furnace filters regularly for efficient airflow
• On cloudy days, keep drapes and blinds closed. Drapes and blinds add an extra layer of insulation. On sunny days, open the drapes and blinds to let in the sun's heat.
• Don’s block registers, baseboards, radiators, or cold air returns. Air must circulate through and around them for maximum efficiency
• Seal heating ducts and insulate those that run through unheated spaces
• Cut up to three percent from your heating costs for every degree you set your thermostat back over an 8-hour period
• Don’s get caught setting the thermostat to a high temperature to heat your home faster. It won’t heat quicker and leaving it there can use a lot of energy