Energy-Saving Tips for Homes, Businesses, and Government Offices:

Whether you own a home or rent, whether you work for a private business or in a government office, you can do your part to save energy in East Hampton.

If we all do our share to save energy, we can help prevent rolling blackouts, reduce the need for more polluting power generation, cut down on harmful air emissions, and save money.

Here are some energy efficiency tips for home and workplaces:

 At Home

When replacing appliances, shop for ENERGY STAR® labels.

Give your fridge a check-up: defrost, check seals, clean coils.

Set A/C temperature to 78° F and turn it off when not at home.

Close window shades on hot and sunny days.

At night, use air conditioners in bedrooms only (or use fans).

Replace conventional bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs available in local hardware   stores.

Use task lights, dim room lights, turn outdoor lights off when not needed.

Do laundry and dishes at night or in the morning.

Set pool pump to run during off peak periods (after 8 PM).

Turn off appliances when not in use.

Install low-flow showerheads, wrap water heater and adjust to 120° F or 140° F if you use a dishwasher.

At Work:

Set A/C/ temperature to 78° F, install programmable thermostat.

With A/C/ on, keep windows and doors closed, use shades where possible.

Use fan to improve air circulation.

Use task lights instead of room lights; turn off lights at night, in outdoors.

Minimize use of incandescent or halogen lighting, use fluorescent instead.

Use display lighting sparingly, install timers to turn off late at night.

Enable power management on personal computers and copiers.

Turn off or unplug all infrequently used equipment.

Turn computers and copiers off at closing time.

Unplug transformers plugged into outlets when not in use.

Purchase only ENERGY STAR® labeled office equipment.

When ordering equipment, be sure to specify high energy efficiency rating.