Summer Energy Saving Tips

Just because winter is over doesn’t mean it is time to neglect looking at ways to continue to save in energy costs during the summer. The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) is offering tips on how to stay cool this summer while you keep your cool when your utility bills arrive. Here are a few of the top tips that appear at http://www.michigan.gov/som/0,1607,7-192--144160--,00.html

• Clean air conditioner filters and coils every month to make them more energy efficient
• Use a programmable thermostat. Setting it 10 degrees warmer when not at home can save 3 to 5 percent on electric bills
• 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
• Lower the temperature on the hot water heater to 120 degrees, a setting comfortable for most uses

You might also want to check out the Department of Energy’s website for energy saving tips at www.energysavers.gov.

Edison Electric has a list of 100 tips on saving energy at http://www.eei.org/industry_issues/retail_services_and_delivery/wise_energy_use/100Ways.pdf .

Free Energy Workshops Offered

Today, May 22, the Ottawa County Community Action Agency will be holding an energy workshop at the Michigan Works! Service Center from 6-8:30pm. Another energy workshop will be held on Wednesday, May 27, in Holland in the main conference room of the Ottawa County Public Health Building from 2-4:30pm. The workshops will help you save money on your energy bills, conserve energy, and educate attendees on pollution. Lessons in weatherproofing your home will include - weather stripping installation and plastic window coverings. Many more practical tips will be presented to help residents save money by conserving energy through various means.

If you are interested call Carrie at 616-494-8842 to register for this free workshop.