How to stay cool and conserve energy

Staff Reports

Sierra Pacific Power Co. reminds Nevadans how to conserve energy and reduce power bills while keeping their homes cool and comfortable in the summer.

"The most important thing that customers can do to save energy in the summer is to adjust their thermostat to a higher setting," said John Hargrove, energy efficiency and conservation project manager at Sierra Pacific. "We recommend setting your thermostat at 78 degrees when you are home and 85 degrees when you are away."

Programmable thermostats make it possible to automatically set air conditioners to operate when needed and shut down when not needed, usually at night, during the early morning and times when your home is unoccupied.

"Open windows to let Mother Nature cool your home at night and in the morning when it is the coolest," said Hargrove. "Make sure the blinds and drapes are closed during the warmer parts of the day to keep the cool air in."

Make sure air conditioners operate efficiently by replacing the air filters and cleaning the condenser coils. Portable electric fans and ceiling fans are very effective ways to circulate air, keeping indoor temperatures cooler while holding down energy costs.

These conservation tips are applicable anytime but hold even greater importance during hot weather:

n Turn off lights and appliances when not in use

n Replace incandescent light bulbs with more efficient compact fluorescent bulbs

n Use the dishwasher, washing machine and dryer later in the day, as these appliances can rapidly heat a house, and

n Use outdoor barbecues when possible to prevent kitchen ovens from heating the house.

More energy tips and information on Sierra Pacific's conservation programs, including the refrigerator recycling program and the Energy Star Lighting Program at .sierrapacific.com or (775) 834-4444.