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Make Every Day Count as Earth Day

>> Earth Day is April 22. Although it is nationally observed once a year, you can show your respect for our environment all year long. Conserving energy and choosing electricity generated from renewable sources are steps you can take toward making a difference in your environment. 

Choosing energy generated from  renewable sources is easy. Tri-County offers Green Power for $4 per block of energy (150 kWh). Your annual subscription will help offset power generated from traditional means such as coal. Green power is electricity produced from methane gas from three landfills in Georgia. 

Assess your appliances. Does that 25 year-old freezer need replacing? If you plan to purchase a new one or any other appliance, make sure it has the Energy Star rating. Energy Star products will outperform com-parable models not carrying the label in operating costs. Created in 1992, Energy Star was created by the Environmental Protection Agency to help reduce air pollution. The label is featured on over 40 types of products including appliances, windows and homes and buildings.

Settings on your refrigerator should be maintained between 38 and 42 degrees. You may want to place a thermometer in your refrigerator to assure the correct temperature setting. Also, make sure that the condenser coils under your fridge are kept clean. The freezer should be set between 0 and 5 degrees Fahrenheit. Place your water heater on a low setting (about 120 degrees Fahrenheit).

Thirty percent of a typical home's hot water usage goes toward showers. Perhaps you can cut this number significantly by installing a low-flow, energy-efficient showerhead. At $10 to $20 for a basic showerhead, the fixture would pay for itselfin less than six months.

Are there drafty areas inside your home? Heat can disappear through cracks and uninsulated spaces in your home. Caulk, weatherstripping and spray foam are the most common materials used to prevent air leaks. Also, verify that your attic, walls and crawlspace are insulated properly. For required insulation R-values or a "Do-it-Yourself guide to Energy Star Home Sealing," contact 1-888-STAR-YES or www.energystar.gov. For quick energy-efficiency facts, visit: www.tri-countyemc.com. (45624-01) 

To learn more about Green Power or energy conservation, call (478) 986-8100 or 1-866-254-8100 or visit www.tri-countyemc.com. <<