Electric Customers Have Many Ways to Save

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 30, 2006

NASHVILLE, TN – Nashville Electric Service (NES) is providing some easy tips on how to save money on your next power bill.  By following these simple suggestions in the coming summer months, you may be able to significantly lower the amount of energy you use:

• Adjust your thermostat.  By raising the temperature on your thermostat slightly, we recommend 78ºF, you’ll save money while maintaining a comfortable temperature setting.

• Skip the bath.  Take a quick shower instead of a bath. A five-minute shower, for instance, uses up to 50 percent less hot water than a bath. 

• Turn off all sources of heat.  Try to do your baking, washing, drying and ironing early in the morning or in the evening to reduce the number of appliances that are in use during the hottest time of the day.  Limit your computer use.  When a computer runs 24 hours a day, it uses between $75 and $120 worth of electricity each year. 

• Take the dollar bill test.  Close your refrigerator door on a dollar bill and try to pull it out.  If the dollar comes out easily, you may need new seals or a new refrigerator. 

• Rinse in cold water and wash in warm.  Clothes rinsed in cold water come out as clean as those rinsed in warm water.  Washing in warm rather than hot water uses 50 percent less energy. 

• Avoid over-drying clothes.  Clothes should dry in 40 to 60 minutes in the dryer. If you are buying a new dryer, look for one with a moisture sensor.  It will turn off automatically when clothes are dry.  

• Limit the use of lights.  Natural light saves energy and is easier on your eyes.  Close blinds during the summer to block out heat from the sun. 

• De-energize your home before a vacation.  Set your air conditioner at 85ºF, or turn it off completely in moderate climates.  Unplug major appliances, except your refrigerator and freezer.  Turn your electric water heater off or a gas water heater to the pilot setting.  Shut down pool heaters and reduce pump operating times.  

• Use fans to combat summer heat.  A 60-watt ceiling fan costs between $.08 and $1.50 to operate monthly, while an air conditioner can cost between $6.75 and $40.50 a month.  Fan blades should rotate clockwise in the summer months.

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