Saving on Utilities

How can I save money on electricity and gas?

The most important thing is to use gas and electricity wisely:

• Turn off lights when you are not using them. Keep light bulbs clean so they stay bright.
• Don't leave your TV set, radio or stereo turned on all day long when no one is paying attention.

In cold weather you should:

• Dress warmly in your home.
• Open the window coverings on the sunny side of your home during the day and let the sun give you "free heat".
• Close window coverings on cloudy days or as soon as the sun sets.
• Keep drapes, furniture and floor coverings from blocking hot and cold air return openings.
• Use several light blankets to trap more warm air, rather than one heavy blanket.
• Washing machines: use cold water to wash a full load.
• Turn the thermostat down at night and during the day when you are gone.

How can I save water?

• Don't leave water running while brushing your teeth, shaving, or washing your face.
• Take short showers instead of baths.
• Fill the sink to wash dishes, and fill to rinse instead of letting the water run. This will save about 5 gallons for an average dish load.
• Wash only full loads of laundry.
• Report leaking faucets and constantly running toilets to maintenance.
• Don't leave home when you are watering your lawn.
• Wash your car at a self-service carwash which recycles the water.