July 4 Energy, Safety Tips

Source: Flag.com

It’s a long weekend. A lot families plan fun activities: a picnic, swim, barbeque, fireworks. All of which come with opportunities to save energy and remember safety tips.

Here’s a quick list of tips to remember as you celebrate July 4.

AC energy-efficiency tips:

• Set the Right Temperature When You’re Home: The temperature setting you choose plays a major role in how much energy you save each month. The generally recommended temperature is 78° F to 80° F for summer. For each degree your thermostat is set below 78°F, your electricity use increases by about 3%.
• Save Overnight: You can save 2% on your heating bill for every degree you reduce your thermostat at night. 
• Turn it Up When You’re Out: If you’re gone during the day, raise the air conditioner thermostat by 5 degrees before leaving. This saves energy during times when you don’t need it. If your home will be vacant for several days, turn the air off. The electricity savings will be noticeable on your next bill.
• Replace the Filter: Check your filter often and make sure it’s clean. You’re A/C has to work much harder when the filter’s dirty. During peak use, you’ll want to replace your filter every month. If you find you use your unit less often in spring or fall, you can go 2-3 months without replacing the filter — but don’t forget to check it when the weather gets hotter or colder! Putting a reminder on your calendar is a good idea.
• Use a Fan: Installing a ceiling fan can save electricity by making the room feel around 10°F cooler while using far less energy than your air conditioner.

Pool pump energy-efficiency tips:

• Check your swimming pool pump motor at regular intervals to make sure it’s operating properly. 
• An energy-efficient pump can save you hundreds of dollars per season. 
• Reduce the running time of the pump to the minimum it takes to keep your pool clean. You can even install an inexpensive timer on your pump to automate the process so you don’t have to remember to turn it on and off. 
• Clean your filters regularly. Put reminders on your calendar to make sure this task gets done on schedule.

Safety Tips (from USDA.gov)

• Fireworks rules for Texas
• Barbecue Safety 
• Boating Safety 
• Campfire Safety 
• Healthy Swimming 
• Skin Cancer Prevention 
• Travel Safely

And, of course, you can save energy by turning off all the lights and enjoying the fireworks!