Spring Energy Saving Tips
Franklin PUD wants to help customers save energy heading into the spring. The weather is warming up and we want to give you some ideas to make your place more energy efficient.
Questions? Contact our Energy Services Department to learn more about your home’s potential energy savings or to request a residential energy audit. Call us today at 509-412-4148 or email energyservices@franklinpud.com.
- An AC Tune-up is the best way to say hello to spring. Is important to have your AC unit inspected and maintained before the weather gets too hot, any repairs are best handled before temperatures rise.
- Windows are the easiest way for heat to make its way inside your home, so make sure to strategically plant shady shrubs and trees or set up awnings or screens to serve as an extra layer of protection. Leave blinds open to take advantage of natural light during the day.
- Spring is also a popular time for thunderstorms and flooding. To ensure you do not experience water damage, seal any cracks and leaks-especially in your basement, get your roof and gutters checked and properly seal your windows.
- Yes, your ceiling fan is designed to rotate differently on the season. In winter months, it should rotate clockwise to help distribute heat that is risen. In the spring, you should run your fan counterclockwise to get a breeze going.
- Proper cleaning and maintenance of the refrigerator, dusting and deep cleaning coils will allow air to circulate and therefore reduce energy consumption.
- Reduce the temperature inside your home by using an outdoor smoker or grill instead of the oven or stove.
- Check the filter in your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system. Even though it’s out of sight, don’t leave it out of mind.
- Clean your light fixtures and fixture covers. Cleaning can brighten your space by removing dust and grime collected during the winter.
- Buy good LEDs. Good-quality LEDs are expected to last 30,000 to 50,000 hours, according to the Department of Energy.
- Clean your window AC units. Window AC unites can get dirty, too. They can be cleaned with the proper tools, cleaning equipment and know-how. Always unplug the unit before cleaning it and wait until it is completely dry to plug it back in again.