The new standards apply to general service fluorescent lamps, used in most offices and commercial buildings, and incandescent reflector lamps, which are used for recessed lighting and track lighting. It will result in a 15% lower electricity use for general fluorescent lamps, while decreasing the electricity use of incandescent reflector lamps by 25%. For more information, see the entire EERE article here http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/news/news_detail.cfm/news_id=12613
With the arrival of warmer temperature, we would like to offer some tips on how to save energy this summer.
1. Seal any air leaks around doors and windows.
2. Clean your air conditioner filters and coils every month to make them more energy efficient.
3. Install a programmable thermostat (or thermostats). Setting it 10 degrees warmer when your are not at home can save three to five percent on electric bills
4. Use fans – they can make the use of an air conditioner unnecessary. Ceiling fans, for example, can make a room feel six to seven degrees cooler.
5. Lower the temperature on your hot water heater to 120 degrees, a setting comfortable for most uses.
6. Plant leafy trees that shield the house from direct sunlight, keeping temperatures down. In addition, planting drought-resistant perennials, shrubs and trees can save on water bills because they require less watering.
7. Unplug certain appliances when not in use. Computers, cell phone chargers, MP3 players, televisions, VCRs, DVD players, stereos and microwave ovens often still use energy when they are turned off, but plugged into electric outlets (this is commonly known as phantom power).
If you are in the market for a new appliance, remember to purchase an energy-efficient model with the Energy Star label. Remember, we can do all or any of the above for you.
