Energy Saving Tips

Save Money on Your Energy Bills! Tips to Reduce Your Home’s Energy Costs

Prevent loss of cool air in the summer and warm in the winter

• Add caulking or sealant to existing windows to reduce the infiltration of
  cold air in the winner and warm air in the summer.
  
• Close drapes or blinds and lock windows to ensure a tight seal.
  
• Weather-strip the perimeter of exterior doors.
  
• Install insulation in your attic, walls (where assessable) and floors.
  
• Install dampers in chimneys and close the damper on fireplaces (when not in use) or add glass doors.

Reduce waste from water heating

• Set water heater to 120 degrees (check the manufacturer's label for important information.)
  
• Add insulation to water pipes.
  
• Install low flow shower heads and faucet aerators.
  
• Use conservation showerheads to eliminate hot water waste.

Help your home run more efficiently and conserve energy

• Replace filters in heating and cooling systems on a monthly basis.
  
• Check the direction of ceiling fans: in the summer, set fans to move air downward. In the winter, set fans to move air upward.
  
• Remove furniture and carpeting from heater vents to ensure proper circulation.
  
• Replace old appliances with new energy efficient models - look for the EnergyStar label.
  
• Install Compact Florescent Light (CFL) bulbs.
  
• Adjust the thermostat to slightly lower temperatures in the winter and slightly higher temperatures in the summer when your family is sleeping or away from the home.

Additional Energy Efficiency Program and Savings References

U.S. Department of Energy
Discover tools and information to help you save energy and money at home.

Home Energy Saver
Analyze your home's energy efficiency with the first Internet-based energy audit tool for calculating energy use in residences. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Public Utilities Commission of Texas

Charged with regulating public utilities in the state. Features rules and laws, customer assistance, industries regulated, publications, and news releases.

TDHCA

TDHCA Provides housing and community development opportunities for low income individuals, nonprofit organizations, private companies, and contractors.

Lite Up Texas

The LITE-UP TEXAS program is designed to help qualified low-income individuals reduce the monthly cost of electric service.

Power to Choose

Texas Electric Choice Web site, where you can learn about electric competition in Texas and obtain information to help you make informed decisions about your electricity service and Retail Electric Provider.