Buy Energy Star appliances, computers, and electronic devices
Do not turn on electronic devices until you are ready to use them
Recycle because it costs lots of energy to make new paper, plastic and aluminum
During heating season, be sure your window is securely closed and locked
At night, pull your shade down and conserve heat
During the day, put your shade up and gain natural light
Water Conservation Tips
Take brief showers - a shower uses 1.6 gallons per minute
Turn off the water while brushing your teeth or washing your dishes - only run it when you are actually using it
Rinse your razor in the sink instead of under running water
Only wash your clothes when you have a full load
Report constantly running toilets or dripping faucets
Report any leaking plumbing fixture (toilet, sink, pipes, etc.)
Computer Conservation Tips
Turn your computer off at night or when you are away
If the computer is going to be inactive for greater than 15 minutes, consider shutting it down. After this time, the energy needed to run the computer is greater than the energy needed for start-up
Do not turn the printer on until you are ready to use it
Most computer equipment now comes with power management features (Energy Star), please use them
Despite the name, screen savers do not save anything, so turn off your monitor when not in use. Flashing images actually consume as much energy as during active use
When possible, purchase flat panel monitors. LCD screens use 80% less energy than larger cathode ray tube monitors.
When purchasing equipment, look for the "Energy Star" logo
Screen savers do not save energy, but setting your computer to "sleep" after fifteen minutes of inactivity will decrease energy use
Turn off your monitor when leaving the office for lunch, a meeting, or for the evening
Keep your computer off in the evenings and on weekends
Turn off printers after hours
Use shared network printers instead of individual printers
Use email instead of printing and faxing documents
Use power strip surge protectors for computer equipment
Heating and Air Conditioning Tips
In the summer, set the thermostat to 76 degrees during the day and 85 degrees at night
In the winter, set the thermostat to 70 degrees during the day and 61 degrees at night
Use blinds to minimize solar heat
Keep doors and windows closed in air conditioned areas
Use automatic door switches for handicap access only
Wear light clothing to stay cooler in the office instead of lowering the thermostat
Avoid the use of personal fans and space heaters
Light Tips
Replace lamp light bulbs with fluorescent bulbs. Fluorescent bulbs provide the same amount of light but use 75% less energy, generate less heat, and last 10-13 times longer.
Turn off lights in areas that already have adequate lighting
Turn off lights when you leave the room, even if it's only for a few minutes
Use natural lighting instead of electric lighting whenever possible
Try task lighting and reduce overhead lighting
Water Tips
Report leaky faucets and running toilets to Facility Services
Avoid using the toilet as an ashtray or trash can
Do not thaw food with running water. Defrost food in the refrigerator instead
Windows and Door Tips
Keep windows and doors closed in heated and air conditioned areas
