WASHINGTON—The Department of Energy and the nonprofit Alliance to Save Energy offer these tips on curbing energy use and saving money at home.
No Cost:
_Turn off appliances and electronics when not in use.
_Wash clothes in cold water. Heating water accounts for about 16 percent of home energy bill.
_Take showers of five minutes or less.
_Set water heater temperature at 120 Fahrenheit or less.
Low Cost:
_Install low-flow showerheads and sink aerators to reduce hot-water use.
_Insulate water tanks with a wrap, about $20, to hold heat inside. Add pre-cut pipe insulation to exposed pipes.
_Seal ductwork with mastic, not duct tape, to ensure improved heating system efficiency.
_Install double-pane storm windows. A lower-cost alternative is to apply plastic sheeting on the inside of windows to reduce heat loss.
Driving:
_Drive under 65 mph, 55 mph where possible.
_Ensure tires are filled to their recommended levels.
_Avoid fast starts.
_Get a tune-up.
_Change air and fuel filters.
_Carpool.
For more tips, go to www.energyhog.org
Source: Department of Energy, Alliance to Save Energy
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(c) 2005, Knight Ridder/Tribune Information Services.
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