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Letter to the editor

Energy-saving ideas

By Times Staff
Published August 22, 2007

With the Florida Reliability Coordinating Council issuing an electric power advisory Tuesday, Floridians are asked to curb electricity use during peak demand (4 p.m. to 6 p.m.). Here are a few tips on conservation that also might save you a few bucks on your next electric bill:

- Turn off unnecessary lights and appliances.

- Avoid using big appliances during peak demand. Try running the dishwasher and doing the laundry in the morning instead.

- Raise the temperature a touch on that air conditioner. For central air conditioners, set the fan to "auto." Progress Energy estimates that leaving the fan on constantly can add $25 a month to your bill.

- Unplug chargers or electronics that use remote controls. Chargers for portable electronics like iPods and cell phones use power even when the electronics aren't charging. Televisions, DVD players and stereos that take a remote control draw power even when they're off.

- Clean or change your air filters monthly. Progress Energy Florida estimates that dirty air filters can increase costs by 20 percent.

- Reduce the temperature on your electric hot water heaters.

- Use fans to make it feel cooler.

- Switch from incandescent light bulbs to compact fluorescent bulbs. These use less energy and give off less heat.

- Draw your blinds to keep out the sun. This old-fashioned method cuts the work your air conditioner needs to do.

- Consider using your grill or microwave instead of your electric range.

[Last modified August 22, 2007, 01:06:14]