City of Richland, WA
Home MenuEnergy Conservation Tips
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ENERGY EFFICIENCY
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WARM WEATHER ENERGY EFFICIENCY |
OPTIMIZING YOUR HOME ENVIRONMENT: |
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ADJUST THE THERMOSTAT |
Set your thermostat to a higher temperature during the day when you're at home and even higher when you are away. Consider using a programmable thermostat to adjust the temperature throughout the day and night automatically. |
BLOCK THE HEAT |
Close blinds and window coverings during the hottest times of the day. |
FAN FAVORITES |
Ceiling fans create a wind chill effect. Set them to rotate counter-clockwise during warmer weather to push cool air down. |
SUMMER APPLIANCE TIPS: |
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COOL KITCHEN CHOICES |
Use your stove, oven, and dishwasher less frequently during hot weather, and avoid using them during the hottest parts of the day. Opt for grilling outdoors or using a microwave instead. |
WASH EARLY OR LATE |
Schedule laundry and dishwashing for early mornings or late evenings when temperatures are cooler. |
DEFROST WISELY |
Thaw frozen food in the refrigerator overnight instead of using the microwave or running water. This avoids adding heat to your kitchen. |
FAN FAVORITES |
Ceiling fans can create a wind chill effect, making you feel cooler without lowering the thermostat. Set ceiling fans to rotate counter-clockwise during warmer weather to push cool air down. |
POWER DOWN FOR SAVINGS |
Turn off lights, televisions, and appliances when not in use. |
EFFICIENCY ESSENTIALS: |
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UPGRADE YOUR LIGHTING |
Switch to LED light bulbs throughout your home. LEDs are more energy efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs and give off less heat. |
AIR CONDITIONER EFFICIENCY |
Regularly clean or replace air conditioner filters to ensure optimal performance. Consider scheduling professional maintenance for your AC unit to maintain efficiency. |
BE PREPARED FOR EMERGENCIES: |
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| Have a plan in place in case your power goes out and you need a cool place to stay. | |
PLAN FOR POWER OUTAGES |
Have a battery-powered or crank radio on hand to stay informed during outages. Consider purchasing batter-powered fans or a small, portable generator for emergencies. |
IDENTIFY COOLING CENTERS |
Research and create a list of cooling centers in our area. Knowing nearby cooling centers can provide comfort during a power outage. City of Richland facilities, including the Richland Public Library, City Hall, and Community Center are open to the public, if needed, for cooling options. Hours of operation can be found on the City's website. |
FILL UP WATER BOTTLES |
Fill reusable water bottles and keep them cool in the refrigerator in case the power goes out. Staying hydrated is crucial during hot weather. |
UTILIZE NATURAL VENTILATION |
Open windows strategically in the evenings when the outside air is cooler. Create cross-ventilation by opening windows on opposite sides of your home for optimal air circulation. |
COMMUNITY CARE |
Check on your extended family and neighbors to ensure everyone's safety. |
COLD WEATHER ENERGY EFFICIENCY |
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SEALING HEAT IN: |
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SEAL THE LEAKS |
Block air leaks around windows and doors with weather stripping or caulking. Focus on sealing gaps around attics, basements, and fireplaces as well. |
CLOSE THE DAMPER |
When your fireplace is not in use, close the damper to prevent warm air from escaping up the chimney. |
DRAFT DODGING DOORMATS |
Place thick doormats inside and outside entry doors to prevent drafts from entering your home. |
OPTIMIZING YOUR HEATING SYSTEM: |
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THERMOSTAT TUNE-UP |
Schedule annual maintenance for your furnace or heating system to ensure optimal efficiency. |
CLEAN AIR FILTERS |
Replace air filters in your furnace or heating system according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Dirty air filters restrict airflow and reduce efficiency. |
CONSIDER PROGRAMMABLE THERMOSTATS |
Invest in a programmable thermostat that automatically adjusts the temperature throughout the day and night. Lower the temperature slightly at night and when you're away from home. |
WARMING WISELY: |
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REVERSE THE FAN |
During colder weather, set your ceiling fan to rotate clockwise to push warm air down from the ceiling and circulate it throughout the room. |
ZONE CONTROL ADVANTAGE |
If your home has a zoned heating system, utilize it to heat only the rooms you're using. This can significantly reduce energy waste in unoccupied areas. |
CLOSE INTERIOR DOORS |
Keep interior doors closed, especially between heated and unheated areas. This helps contain warm air in occupied areas and prevents drafts. |
HARNESS THE SUNSHINE |
Open curtains and blinds on south-facing windows during the day to allow sunlight to naturally heat your home. |
BE PREPARED FOR EMERGENCIES: |
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FLASHLIGHTS & BATTERIES |
Stock several flashlights and extra batteries to provide light and avoid using candles. |
BATTERY-POWERED RADIO |
Keep a battery-powered or crank radio on hand to stay informed about weather conditions and updates. |
FIRST-AID KIT |
Include basic medical supplies like bandages, pain relievers, and any necessary medications. |
WARM CLOTING AND BLANKETS |
Have extra blankets, warm clothes, hats, and gloves readily available to stay warm. |
IDENTIFY WARMING CENTERS |
Research and create a list of warming centers in the area. City of Richland facilities, including the Richland Public Library, City Hall, and Community Center are open to the public, if needed, for warming options. Hours of operation can be found on the City's website. |
COMMUNITY CARE |
Check on your extended family and neighbors to ensure everyone's safety. |