Watching Your Watts

• Choose compact fluorescent bulbs instead of ordinary incandescents to cut energy costs up to 75 percent. This also reduces air conditioning costs because compact fluorescents generate much less heat.
• Run the washer and dryer only when you have a full load. Choose cold water rinses to cut down on water heating costs.
• Wrap the hot water heater in a thermal blanket and put insulation around any exposed hot water pipes.
• In the summer, close curtains and blinds when the sun is the brightest to keep out the heat.
• Since a full freezer runs more efficiently than a nearly empty one, stock up! Frozen food can retain the cold much better than air, but be sure to allow for circulation.
• Thaw frozen foods ahead of time to reduce cooking time and save energy.
• Request an energy audit from your local electric utility supplier to identify where your home can further reduce use. You can also do your own energy audit at http://hes.lbl.gov.

PAULA FELPS