45 Ways to Save

"45 Ways to Save" via a brochure from the gas company.

It's that time of year again - the fair is in town. Sinclair Air Systems sponsors a train at the garden railroad and while we were there watching the train, we decided to get some information about how our customers can save money.

I would like to share the contents of a brochure supplied by the gas company offering 45 ways to save.

First, they break up the brochure into 7 different appliances. So I would like to highlight one simple step and one energy upgrade per each. We are hoping to offer these brochures as part of our 'customer packages' so if you are interested in getting a copy for yourself, we would love to pass one on to you.

1. Heater - Simple step: "Keep your heating system tuned-up to operate at maximum efficiency." If your heater has dust/debris in it (especially from the fires this summer) the air is going to have to push past all that dirt to actually get out into your home. Of course you are not going to have the power that you would if it were cleaned. Leaks and other things can come undone over the years. Maintenance keeps your unit running smoothly. Energy-Efficient Upgrade: "When buying a new gas furnace, choose an energy-efficient model. Look for a unit with a higher Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE), or an ENERGY STAR label."
2. Air Conditioner - Simple step: "Set your thermostat to 78 degrees or higher (health permitting)." Energy-Efficient Upgrade: "When buying a new electric air conditioner or evaporative cooler, choose an energy-efficient model. Look for a unit with a higher Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) and consider an ENERGY STAR model. An ENERGY STAR central air conditioner saves, on average, 20% on cooling costs."
3. Water Heater - Simple step: "Fix leaky faucets. One drop of hot water per second can waste 500 gallons per year." Energy-Efficient Upgrade: "Install low-flow, water-saving shower heads to cut water use and save up to 10% on water heating costs."
4. Lights - Simple step: "Turn off lights (and other appliances) when they are not being used and when you leave a room." Energy-Efficient Upgrade: "Save up to 10% by installing dimmer switches or lighting motion sensors."
5. Refrigerator - Simple step: "Dirty coils on the back or bottom front of your refrigerator can make it work harder than necessary. Clean and vacuum them at least twice a year." Energy -Efficient Upgrade: "When buying a new refrigerator, choose an energy-efficient model. An ENERGY STAR refrigerator could save you up to 40% on refrigerator costs."
6. Clothes Washers & Dryers - Simple step: "Save up to 10% of hot water heating costs by washing and rinsing your clothes in cold water." Energy-Efficient Upgrade: "Consider switching to a natural gas clothes dryer. Gas dryers are generally less expensive to operate than electric dryers - saving up to 50% on operating costs."
7. Pool and Spa- Simple step: "Keep your pool or spa covered when not in use. Well-fitted pool and spa covers help prevent heat loss for energy savings of up to 50%." Energy-Efficient Upgrade: "Consider purchasing a solar pool cover. It uses the sun to heat the water's surface."

There are many more simple steps and energy-efficient upgrade tips on the brochure, so look it up for yourself.

For more information, contact us or visit the southern California gas company's website: www.socalgas.com