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Supervisor Venditto offers energy conservation tips While energy prices have stabilized, and, in some cases, even dropped because of the mild winter, Oyster Bay Town Supervisor John Venditto reminds residents that energy conservation is still very important and urges residents to incorporate energysaving measures into their daily lives. "The mild winter we have been experiencing has helped keep oil and gas prices down, but that doesn't mean that we should forget about energy conservation," Supervisor Venditto stated. "Our energy resources are not infinite, and in the long run, energy conservation is still good for our pocketbooks. "The best place to start saving energy is at home," the Supervisor continued. "Home heating and cooling systems use tremendous amount of energy. Maximize their efficiency and minimize their fuel consumption by making sure they are operating properly. If you have a warm air system, make sure the filters are kept clean. If you have a hot water or steam system, flush the boiler before and after heating season to remove sludge and dirt buildup. This will improve heat transfer and increase efficiency. You might also consider installing an automatic setback thermostat to lower heat output during certain times of the day or night. "Other ways to help keep heating and cooling bills down are to find and repair leaks around windows, doors, foundations, electrical outlets, exhaust fans and attic openings. Install storm windows and doors to reduce heat loss, insulate ceilings, exterior walls, under floors, heat ducts, hot water pipes and the water heater. And, while you are insulating the water heater, make sure the temperature setting is at the lowest effective level…140 degrees if you have a dishwasher, otherwise about 130 degrees. "Another large energy consumer is lighting," the Supervisor continued. "Select energy-saving bulbs and fixtures when replacements are being made. Light only areas that are being used, and turn off the lights when you leave the room. You can also apply this same principle to televisions, home entertainment systems and computers. Many of us have the habit of turning them on and then not watching, listening or using to them. Save energy by turning them on only when you plan to really enjoy them." Supervisor Venditto also urges residents to use energy sense when it comes to operating appliances. "Wait until you have full loads before running the dishwasher or washing machine," he stated. "And, make sure the temperature in the refrigerator is set at the optimum level and the condenser coils are cleaned regularly. If you are in the market for new appliances, look for one with high energy-efficiency ratings or EER's, as they are commonly called." Supervisor Venditto noted that another important way you can help save energy is through recycling. "By returning recyclable materials to the marketplace to be used in place of virgin resources, which require more fuel in the manufacturing process, valuable oil resources are saved," he emphasized. Outside the home, the family car or SUV is the largest energy consumer. To help save fuel, make sure your vehicle is properly tuned up. Have the engine checked regularly to spot any problems that could be increasing fuel consumption. Short car trips consume more energy, so plan one trip to do your shopping and errands rather than taking individual trips. "Conserving energy isn't difficult," Supervisor Venditto, "but it does take some thoughtful planning. The result, though, is that we will use our resources more effectively while still obtaining maximum comfort and satisfaction from the energyconsuming products in our lives and, perhaps, saving ourselves a few dollars in the process."
The Supervisor noted that for more energy saving tips, as well as programs that might help you save money on your energy bills, visit the Long Island Power Authority (LIPA) Web site at www.lipower.org/cei/tips.html.
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