Clarke & Rush encourages homeowners to take an active role in energy conservation. Save energy resources by taking some simple steps in and around your home. These energy-saving tips offer easy, low-cost or no cost steps that will begin saving money and energy immediately. Call us today to help you or answer any questions you may have. Clarke & Rush is interested in helping you save energy.

• Clean or change furnace filters every three months or as required by manufacturer. Dirty filters restrict airflow and increase energy use.
• Clean the clothes dryer lint trap after every load and be sure that the dryer's exhaust line is clean and clear.
• Leave space between your refrigerator and the surrounding walls and cabinets to allow air to circulate around the coils. Poorly ventilated coils increase energy usage.
• To save on your water heating cost, set your water heater to 120 degrees or 'normal' setting.
• Consider changing your old thermostat to an easy-to-use programmable one. You can save up to $50 a year by using a new set-back thermostat.
• Install a timer, or set your timer to run pool filtering and sweeping operations during off-peek hours.
• Weather-stripping and caulking around doors and windows will rid your house of drafts and prevent leaking of heated or cooled air.
• Repair, seal, and add insulation to existing heating and cooling ducts to prevent heating and cooling loss.
• If your windows are single pane and leak air, consider replacing them with high performance windows.
• Install thermal resistance insulation in walls and R-38 insulation in attics. The higher the insulation level, the more you save in energy.
• Close drapes, blinds and shades to help retain heat at night or during unoccupied periods.
• Use hot water for clothes washing only when necessary and always use cold water for the rinse cycle.
• Put full loads in the dishwasher and use the 'energy saving' setting for the drying cycle.
• Install timers, time clocks or photocells with motion sensors to enhance security and ensure that outside lighting is used only when needed.
• Use task lighting when possible. Focus light where it's needed rather than lighting an entire room.
• Use your microwave oven as much as possible in the summer. You stay cooler and save energy.
• Use an automatic clothes-drying cycle instead of a timer cycle, if possible.
• Install a pool or spa cover to minimize heat loss due to evaporation.