Energy Saving and Conservation Tips

Saving water is important for the environment and can mean a lower utility bill for your residence as well:

•   Always report water leaks to HappyDoors as soon as possible:
•  Report water dripping under sinks.
•  Running toilets are big water wasters – usually caused by a bad flapper or fill valve.
•  Replace sprinkler heads and report malfunctioning sprinkler systems.
•  Report standing pools of water.
•  Check for dripping faucets.
• Report malfunctioning water appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines that come with the property.

• Run the dishwasher only when it is fully loaded.
• Adjust washing machine water level to match the load size.
• Check water hoses on washing machines for leaks.
• Adjust the water level to match the load, using less water for small loads.
• Take shorter showers.
• Avoid letting the water continually run while shaving, brushing your teeth, or washing your face.
• Talk to children about how to prevent wasting water.
• Do not “over water” landscaping; it is not healthy for plants and simply wastes water.

Energy-Conservation---Tops-on-Staying-Cool.pdf

To lower AC bills:

• During warm or hot months, close the windows and doors to your home early in the day to “keep cool air in,” particularly when the air-conditioner is running.
• Close window coverings on the sunny side of the house during different times of the day; this can lower the temperature dramatically.
• Replace or clean the air filter often and with the right size, at a minimum of every three months, monthly if you smoke. A clean filter helps the air-conditioner to run more efficiently.
• When leaving your residence, turn the air-conditioner up a few degrees, a closed house without activity normally stays cooler. This is particularly important when going on vacation.
• There is no reason to keep the residence in a frigid/cool state while you are gone, but do not turn the air off on very hot days – it will only take longer and more energy to cool down.

To lower electric bills:

• Turn off lights and ceiling fans when your not in a room. Ceiling fans circulate air which makes air feel cooler on the body. However, ceiling fans to not actually reduce temperature. Therefore leaving a ceiling fan running all the time does not help keep the home cool; it only increases your electric bill.
• Use energy efficient light bulbs.
• Use blackout or heat reflective curtains/drapes and have them closed during the day to help reduce the need to use AC.
• Turn off electronic devises when not in use.