Warm-Weather Tips
Sometimes, on the hottest, most humid days, the overall demand for electric power may come close to exceeding the available supply. On such days, companies like Central Hudson may be directed by New York State energy authorities to call on their customers to decrease electrical consumption for a period of time, thus lessening the need for voltage reductions or rolling blackouts. Here are some simple ways that you can respond to such a call for conservation:
Don’t run washing machines, clothes dryers, dishwashers, swimming pool filters, hot tubs, spas or any other major appliances until later in the evening — usually after 7 p.m. — when the overall demand for electricity is lower.
Keeping a fan on in an empty room does absolutely no good. Turn it off when you leave, and turn it back on when you return.
If you have central air conditioning, set it no lower than 78 degrees.
Turn off all lights that are not needed, especially those that are on in empty rooms.
If no one is really watching the television or listening to the radio or stereo, turn them off.
Computers, printers, scanners and any other electronic devices that are not in use should not be left on.
Keep curtains and shades drawn together, doors and windows closed tight during the daytime hours, to seal in the cool and shut out the heat.
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Cold-Weather Tips
Maximize Your Home's Energy Efficiency = Minimize Your Utility Bill
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Use Energy Wisely
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Plan for Long-Term
Energy-Efficiency Improvements
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Set thermostats between 65 and 70° during the winter, and at 58° when away from the house for more than a few hours. Bear in mind that warmer temperatures are recommended for homes with ill or elderly persons or infants. |
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Check to see if attic and basement have the recommended levels of insulation. |
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Turn down thermostats automatically without sacrificing comfort by installing an automatic setback or programmable thermostat. SAVINGS: Cut annual heating bills by as much as 10% to 15% for eight hours per day. |
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Check the heating system and replace old, outdated appliances with high-efficiency models. When buying new appliances, compare energy efficiency ratings and annual operating costs. |
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Change or clean furnace filters once a month during the heating season. |
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Install storm or thermal windows and doors or double-paned glass. A less expensive alternative is plastic sheeting, which can be temporarily fastened over doors and windows to prevent drafts and retain heat. |
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Warm air rises, so use registers to direct warm airflow across the floor. |
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Keep The Cold Out
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Close vents and doors in unused rooms and close dampers on unused fireplaces. |
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Reducing air leaks could cut 10% from an average household's monthly energy bill. |
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Set water heater temperatures at 120°. this will allow a family to cut water heating bills without sacrificing comfort. |
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Seal leaks around doors, windows, and other openings such as pipes or ducts, with caulk or weather-stripping. The most common places where air escapes in homes are: |
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Install water-flow restrictors in showerheads and faucets. |
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floors, walls, ceilings
ducts |
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Place a sheet of aluminum foil between the radiator and the wall to reflect heat back into the room. |
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fireplace
plumbing penetrations |
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Run washing machines and clothes dryers with a full load. |
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doors
windows |
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On sunny days, open draperies and blinds to let in the sun's warmth. Close them at night to insulate against cold air outside. |
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H
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fans and vents
electric outlets |
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