Green Electricity Lifestyle Tips

Use dimmer switches on regular incandescent and halogen lamp fixtures. Call Pat Murphy Electric Inc to help you with this task.

Install a transient voltage surge suppressor on your panel, it doesn’t save energy but it does extend the life of electronics and lamps in your home. Make sure the job is done right and let a Pat Murphy certified technician install an electric panel.

Compact fluorescent or LED lamps on non-dimmer switched fixtures 4 to 20 watts versus 60 to 100 watts.

These include cell phones, small electronics, etc. Unplug while not in use or use power strip with an on/ off switch.

Use motion sensing switches. Our team of professionals can quickly and correctly install motion sensing switches throughout your home.

To monitor power usage.

Use electronic programmable thermostat with the following settings: 78 degrees during summer/ warm months and 68 degrees during winter/ cold months; use ceiling fans or fan only setting on your t-stat during summer months, reverse the ceiling fans direction during the winter months. We recommend having an HVAC contractor complete this task.

Regular maintenance, clean strainer, and change filter quarterly; have ductwork cleaned and seal duct leaks. We recommend having an HVAC contractor complete this task.

Set to energy saving/ recommended zone; tankless water heater. We recommend having a Plumbing contractor complete this task.

Set to energy saving/ recommended zones, a full refrigerator/ freezer is more efficient than a half full or less refrigerator/ freezer, pull out every six months and vacuum dust.

Only use dishwasher when full and during off peak hours (after 7PM and before 7AM). Use air dry option instead of heat dry.

Match the size of the pan to the stove eye, use timers and open the oven door less while cooking; ceramic, glass, and stainless cookware holds heat better.

Use during off peak hours (after 7PM and before 7AM).

UV window film (not tinted), draperies/ window treatments (remember per the condo docs must be white or off white from the outside). Seek help from an Insulation Contractor.

Use an external water heater blanket/ insulation.

Turn every light on in the house and while it is dark walk around it noting where you have cracks to fill/ insulate. If cracks are present, contact your local insulation contractor.

Check the depth of your attic insulation with a tape measure. Use your local insulation contractor for insulation adjustments.

Make sure water is not trickling in the bowl or the tank draws water periodically. Contact your local plumber to fix the problem immediately.

Make sure the faucet has an air-raider screen, repair any periodic drips (typically hot handle gasket needs replacing).

Use an aerated shower head. These can be purchased from your local hardware store and are easy to install.

Make sure the faucet has an aerator screen and repair any periodic drips.

Only use dishwasher when full.

Use ice maker only when ice levels get low, then raise the sensor bar to the off position.

Make sure the washer water connects are not leaking and the unit is draining properly.

Make sure the water heater is not leaking. Now that you know what to look for, you'll be better equipped to keep your energy bills and your budget under control.