Energy Services Specialist Program Call us if you are building a new home or replacing an existing heating/cooling system. We have information on how to build an energy efficient home. We also have the latest information about operating costs on different types of heating/cooling options. Our experts can come to your home and perform an energy audit to determine what can be done to improve your home’s comfort level and save you money. This is free of charge to our members. Our number is (260)463-7165 or (877)463-7165. Visit the Energy Advisor website.

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• When you leave a room, turn off the lights.
• Check your home's insulation and weather stripping. If you can feel air coming in around windows or doors, improvements are needed.
• Keep fireplace dampers closed when the fireplace is not in use. This will prevent conditioned air from escaping.
• Make sure refrigerator and freezer seals are secure.
• Let hot foods cool down before placing them in the refrigerator or freezer.
• Use the microwave, toaster oven or a small electric skillet for heating small meals.
• Always use a lid when boiling water on the stove top. It reduces boiling time significantly.
• Replace heating and cooling system filters once per month during operating season. Dust and dirt can block the air flow and make the unit work harder, decreasing its efficiency.
• If you don't have an automatic air dry switch on your dishwasher, turn the control knob to off after the final rise. The dishes can then air dry, which conserves electricity.
• Use a low flow shower head to conserve hot water. A number of models on the market today have multiple settings to create ample pressure.
• If you are planning to replace a worn furnace or air conditioner, consider a heat pump or geothermal system. These systems save energy while providing both heating and cooling. Call LaGrange County REMC for more information.
• When shopping for a new water heater, look for the most efficient model. Call LaGrange County REMC for information on operating costs and our special water heating rate.
• When washing clothes, avoid using hot water whenever possible.
• Do as much household cleaning as possible with cold water.
• Replace inefficient incandescent light bulbs with more efficient compact fluorescent bulbs.
• Use one higher-watt bulb instead of several lower-watt bulbs where bright light is needed.
  

For more useful energy saving information visit these websites:

U.S. DOE Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Network
www.eren.doe.gov

U.S. DOE Energy Savers: Tips on Saving Energy
www.eere.energy.gov/consumerinfo/energy_savers/