HOME OFFICE

LIGHTING

• Consider using solid-state dimmers with your incandescent lights. When you finish using a reading or work light, you can dim it for general room illumination.
  
• Choose light-colored, translucent lampshades.

DOORS/VENTILATION

• If you have a heat pump system, leave all doors and vents open to ensure proper airflow.

MONITOR/COMPUTER

• Turn off computer equipment that won't be in use for several hours. Enable "sleep" function to power down for shorter periods.

WINDOWS

• Unfortunately, windows can also account for 10% to 25% of your heating bill. During the summer, sunny windows make your air conditioner work two to three times harder.
  
  
• If your home has single-pane windows, as almost half of U.S. homes do, consider replacing them with new double-pane windows with high-performance glass.
  
  
• Vinyl and fiberglass windows offer higher energy efficiency
  
  
• In warmer climates, select windows with spectrally selective coatings to reduce heat gain.
  
  
• Use your shades. Closing drapes and shades – especially on southern windows – will help keep the sun out and your home cool. Cover eastern windows in the mornings and western windows in the afternoon.
  

SURGE PROTECTION

• Ask York Electric Cooperative to install a surge suppressor at the base of your electric meter. You can also purchase individual surge suppressors for your computer, TV, telephone, stereo and other electronic equipment.

VENTS

• Close heating vents or radiators in rooms you don't use.