Many New
Yorkers, in our current economic situation, are looking for ways to save money
and cut costs. By picking up a few simple habits and switching some of your
appliances, you can save money on your electric bill - and help the environment
- this winter.
Did you know…?
Resources to Lower Your Bill
New York State provides an Energy
Smart Communities Coordinator in every borough to help bring energy
initiatives to you and your neighborhood. New York State Smart Energy Loan
Program provides an application
and list of offices for a reduced loan regarding the purchase of energy
efficient products in the home.
Low income
individuals might be available for state provided reduction
measures, such as lighting and refrigerator replacements. If you’re having
a dispute with your utilities provider, the New York State Public Service
Commission offers a Dispute
Resolution program.
Simple Habits to Save Energy in Your
Home
Follow the
steps below and you can do your part to save energy and reduce your bill at the
same time:
-
Use
caulk or weather stripping to seal air that is escaping your home. It will cost
less to heat or cool your space.
-
Set
your thermostat to 60 degrees when you are not home (health permitting).
-
Keep
your vents clean. Dust and other materials blocking these airways will make you
turn up the heat higher.
-
Insulate
your hot-water pipes that pass through unheated spaces. For steam pipes, use
non-foam insulation, as foam can melt.
-
You
can also encourage your landlord
or management company to install energy efficient appliances.
-
Place
a reflector between the wall and your radiator to prevent heat from escaping
into exterior walls.
-
Use
ceiling fans to circulate warm air.
-
When
buying energy products like water heaters or air-conditioners, look for the
energy star label on the side of the machine. You will find these products will
use a lot less energy.
-
Florescent
light bulbs use ¼ as much energy as your standard bulb but last ten times
longer. You can find them at these
retailers.
-
Turn
off the lights during the day or when you leave a room.
-
Turn
your TV or your computer off when you are not using it.



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