Energy Tips

Mid-Ohio EnergyCooperative, Inc.
provides the following energy tips to make your home more efficient.

• Air infiltration – when in doubt caulk it with high quality non-expandable foam and siliconizedcaulk.
  
• Duct leakage is a major problem in many homes. Seal with a mastic tape and insulate. Duct tape does not permanently seal duct work.
  
• Purchase appliances based on energy usage.
  The label on new appliances allows you to compare costs of operation. If you have an older inefficient water heater, wrap the unit with a thermal blanket or replace the heater with a new efficient model. In most cases a temperature setting of 120 degrees is sufficient for a water heater. Test temperature with a cooking thermometer.
  
• Set the room temperature as low as possible (heating season) and still be comfortable. Wear extra clothing, sweatshirts/sweaters, to stay warm.
  
• Cut hot water usage. Repair leaky faucets, use
  flow restrictor devices in faucets and shower
  heads and use cold water for laundry when
  applicable.
  

Energy-saving tips for the kitchen

• When baking in the oven, don’t peek – 20 to 25% of an oven’s heat can be lost each time the door is opened.
  
• Try to use all the space in your oven. Extra dishes can be frozen for future meals.
  
• A slow cooker and a microwave may save considerable energy when cooking meals.
  
• Cover pots and pans to retain heat while cooking.
  
• Use flat bottomed pans to match the size of the burner unit.
  
• Self-cleaning ovens use less energy because they are better insulated.
  
• The best time to clean a self-cleaning oven is right after baking when the oven is hot.
  
• Refrigerators work more efficiently if air can circulate; freezers work better when they are full.
  
• Avoid opening refrigerator and freezer doors frequently. Take out as many things as you can at one time.
  
• If you have a manual defrost refrigerator, do not let ice build up more than ¼ inch.
  
• Refrigerator and freezer door gaskets must be tight, and replace worn, dirty or poor-fitting gaskets.

 

Levelized Billing Direct Payment

• No matter what the temperature is outside, your electric bill won’t be a surprise.
  
• You can eliminate seasonal highs and lows by signing up for Mid-Ohio Energy’s levelized billing program.
  
• Levelized billing is a 12 month rolling average of your electric bills. The bill will vary just a little each month. Your electric bill will show your levelized billing and your actual usage each month.

Direct Payment:

• Your bill is paid on time.
  
• Safer than checks.
  
• Bills are paid even if you are out of town or on vacation.
  
• You never forget to pay be
  cause it is automatic.
  
• Eliminates late fees.
  
• Saves on gas and postage.

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