How you can make the best of National Energy Awareness Month

environmental-captureStory by Anette Gross, USAG Ansbach DPW Environmental Management Division

ANSBACH, Germany (Oct. 20, 2016) – The White House declared October as the National Energy Awareness Month. This national effort is to underscore how central energy is to the national prosperity, security, and environmental well-being.

Senior administration officials across the federal government will be highlighting the work they are doing to position the country for a sustainable future, create new clean-energy jobs and lay the foundation for our long-term economic security (www.whitehouse.gov/issues/national-energy-awareness-month).

The U.S. Department of Energy is featuring some effective ways to save energy at home. As cooler weather lurks around the corner, tune in to Energy.gov all month long for ways to save energy and money.

It has long been said that on All Hallows’ Eve, the boundary between the living world and dead thins, allowing spirits to run free. Whether you believe in paranormal activity or not, this Halloween don’t let your energy consumption give you a scare.

Save money on lighting costs with energy-efficient light bulbs. With traditional incandescent bulbs, about 90 percent of energy used is given off as heat. By replacing 15 inefficient incandescent bulbs with energy-saving lights, you can save up to $50 per year. Besides, non-energy-efficient incandescent bulbs have not been available in Germany since 2009.

Achieve water savings of 25 to 60 percent by installing low-flow fixtures. Learn how to determine if you should replace your fixtures, and be sure your faucets are equipped with an aerator to help restrict the flow of water.

Watch out for phantom loads haunting your energy bill. The term “phantom loads” refers to the energy that appliances draw when they are in standby mode. They cost the average U.S. household $100 per year. Make phantom loads disappear by unplugging electronics and battery chargers when not in use.

This Halloween, protect yourself from evil spirits waiting to torment you – and rising energy bills – with these energy efficiency tips. After all, saving energy and money is a treat you can enjoy all year long.

Learn more by visiting http://energy.gov/articles/national-energy-awareness-month.

(Visited 330 times, 1 visits today)

Comments are closed.