• Turn off lights, water heater and all appliances when not in use.

• Decide what you want before opening the refrigerator. Avoid purchasing used refrigerators. They burn more electricity than the newer models.

• Use a power strip to shut off all computers, printers, routers, modems and mobile phone and MP3 chargers when not in use.

• Switch to Compact Fluorescent Lighting (CFL) or Light Emitting Diode lighting (LED). Holiday lights and outdoor lights are also available in CFL and LED.

• Use the dishwasher and washing machine for full loads only and air-dry dishes and line-dry clothes as much as possible. Clean the lint trap regularly on your washing machine for better performance.

• Use natural daylight and natural breeze as much as possible. Investment in a well-placed window instead of a fan or air-conditioning can pay for itself in just a few months.

• Only have the water running when you are using it. Turn it off while soaping, shaving and brushing.

• Purchase Energy Star appliances and switch to solar-powered water heaters.

• Take showers instead of baths and shorten the time you spend in the shower.

• Use a low flow showerhead rated at 2.5 gallons per minute or less to conserve your hot water.
   

AT THE OFFICE

• Choose a multifunctional product (printer/copier/scanner) instead of separate products.

• Don’t forget to turn your printer off at night as it still draws power even when not in use.

• Plug your printer, scanner and all-in-one device into an advanced power strip so that when you switch off your computer (or put it in sleep mode) all of the peripherals will also turn off.

• When you shut down your computer, don’t forget to turn off the monitor - it can use twice as much energy as the computer!

• Use the power management feature on your computer monitor; it will turn off the monitor when idle for over 15 minutes when you leave your computer on.

• Consider a laptop computer over a traditional desktop – laptops use less energy.

• Seal spaces around the air conditioner with caulking to prevent cool air from escaping and clean the cooling and condenser fans and filter regularly.

• Use heavy, dark drapes on windows and draw them shut during the hottest part of the day to keep office cool. Consider tinting windows to keep your office cooler using less air-conditioning.

• Use desk lamps with CFL and LED bulbs for ambient and work lighting instead of larger overhead lights.

• Give custodial staff a checklist of all the appliances, electronics to ensure are turned off before closing the office.

• Reconsider expensive lighted signage for other options.
  

IN THE CAR

• Plan your trips before you get behind the wheel. Call ahead to make sure everything is available or ready.

• Keep tires properly inflated.

• Don’t let your vehicle idle for long periods of time.

• Do not speed.

• Do not overload your car with junk. Lighter cars burn less fuel.

• Exchange vehicles with your family members so you can use the one that burns the least amount of gas for longer trips.

• Share a ride or use public transportation when you can.
  

Did You Know?

• CFL and LED bulbs burn 75% less energy than traditional bulbs.

• Ink jet printers use as much as 90% less energy than typical laser printers.

• Placing your refrigerator too close to the stove or hot items makes it work twice as hard and burn more electricity.

• Underinflated tires make your car burn more fuel.

• Too many steaming hot showers can dry out and damage your skin.

• Installing faucet aerators and low-flow shower heads can cut your heater’s electricity use and your water consumption by up to 50%.

• Setting your air conditioner 5° warmer can help it burn 20% less electricity.