Load Management

Visit the link below for information on renewable energy in the Chequamegon Bay area!

Here are some answers to commonly

asked questions about home energy use.

Should I leave the lights on when leaving a room for a short period?

The cost effectiveness of turning lights on and off depends on the type of

bulb. Incandescent bulbs are very inefficient and should be turned off whenever

they are not needed. Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) are highly efficient and

their operating life is affected by the number of times they are switched on and

off. Leave CFLs on if you will be out of a room for 15 minutes or less.

What is the best thermostat setting for saving energy and remaining

comfortable?

In winter, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends a temperature setting

of 68 degrees when you are at home and a lower setting at night or when you

are away. In summer, set the thermostat at 78 degrees to stay comfortable when

you are at home, and raise it to 85 degrees to save energy when your home is

unoccupied.

Will closing vents help lower my heating and cooling costs?

Typically, closing or covering up vents is not a good way to save on energy

costs. Heating and cooling systems are balanced throughout the duct system;

closing vents throws the system off balance. Pressure can build up in the

ductwork, causing leakage and reducing the amount of air circulating in your

home. This reduces system efficiency and comfort.

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