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ENERGY Eff iciency


How renters can fi ght the winter chill A


By Abby Berry


ccording to the U.S. Census Bureau, 33 percent of Americans lease their


homes. Unfortunately, many lease agreements forbid major alterations to rental properties. But don’t worry, renters! Consider using these low- cost, energy-effi cient tips from OEC to improve the effi ciency of your home this winter.


Hot savings Heating the home typically


makes up about 48 percent of your utility bill. Set your thermostat as low as is comfortable in the winter – Energy.gov recommends 68 degrees Fahrenheit to boost energy effi ciency. During the winter months, take


advantage of heat from sunlight. Open draperies and shades during


the day to allow natural light to heat your home. Does your home have window


air conditioning units? T is winter, remember to insulate the units from the outside with a tight-fi tting cover, available at your local home improvement center or hardware store. T is keeps heated air from escaping outside.


Bright ideas Lighting is one of the easiest


places to start saving energy, and savings are not strictly limited to winter months. Try replacing a few of your most frequently used light bulbs with ENERGY STAR- qualifi ed lights, and save more than $65 a year in energy costs. ENERGY STAR-qualifi ed compact fl uorescent


light bulbs (CFLs) use 75 percent less energy and last several times longer than incandescent light bulbs, saving money on energy bills and replacement costs.


Other ways to save Leasing an older home or


apartment? Odds are you have single- pane windows and old or missing caulk. Don’t let the winter chill seep indoors! Apply caulk around window frames, sashes and door panels to combat air leaks. Also, be mindful when using electronics at home. Unplug devices when not in use, and use smart power strips to save on energy use. To learn more ways to be energy effi cient around the home, visit TogetherWeSave.coop.


Abby Berry writes on consumer and cooperative aff airs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the Arlington, Va.- based service organization for the nation’s 900-plus consumer-owned, not-for-profi t electric cooperatives.


TO FIND MORE WAYS YOU CAN SAVE THIS WINTER, TAKE THE HOME ENERGY TOUR AT TOGETHERWESAVE.COOP


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OKLAHOMA ELECTRIC CO-OP NEWS • DECEMBER 2014


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