Basic Energy Tips

Here are TXU Energy's top tips for energy conservation in the home. They're easy on your wallet, easy on the environment, and very easy to do.

Light Bulbs

Replace all your old incandescent light bulbs with new compact fluorescent light bulbs. This can cut your light bulb energy usage by 75%.

Set your water heater temperature at 120°. This is the fastest and easiest way that families can cut water heating bills without sacrificing comfort.

Set thermostats at about 78° during the summer. Then use ceiling fans in the "down" mode at the highest speed to push cooler air back into the room.

Clean or replace your air conditioning filter at least once a month. This will help your air conditioning unit run more efficiently and use less energy.

Check to see if there's an energy-saver option on each of your appliances. If there is, be sure to switch it on.

Always look for ENERGY STAR^® models when purchasing new appliances and electronics. These devices are designed to use less energy and will save you money.

Always make sure you're washing full loads of dishes or clothes. Remember, each wash uses the same amount of electricity whether it's a full load or not.

If you have a microwave oven, use it. Microwaves use about half the electricity of a stove or oven, and cook food in significantly less time.

Minimize the number of times you open and close doors to the outside. Be especially careful of sliding glass doors to your porch or balcony that might be left open.

Check for leaks in air ducts, windows, plumbing, fireplaces, attics, and light fixtures. Then seal them with caulking and weather stripping.

Make sure you have adequate insulation in your walls and the attic. And don’t forget to insulate your hot water pipes.

Replace your windows with storm windows, thermal windows, or double-paned glass. For a temporary, lower cost solution during winter, use plastic sheeting to prevent drafts and retain warm air.

Consider planting deciduous trees on the south and west sides of your house. Their leaves block the sun in summer, and then drop in the fall to allow the sun's warmth in winter.

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