Dear Neighbor,

Keeping Heating Costs Low

Every year, as we face the downturn of temperatures, we are confronted with the upturn in costs to stay warm. There are several weatherization programs, energy rebates, and loans that are available to residents for purposes of energy efficiency from a new home to appliance rebates. But saving energy and staying warm goes further than programs intended to help relieve the financial burden of our harsh Interior winters. Below are a few suggestions I’ve found have helped keep us warm, and our energy bills consistent.

Tips for Staying Warm and Saving $$

A holistic approach to energy conservation and waste prevention will be the best way to see results in your financial savings. Here are a few ideas I’ve learned from living in Fairbanks to help in this way:

• Reduce your heat when you are not home, and at night;

• Wear a sweater;

• Turn off lights when they are not in use;

• Unplug appliances when not in use. Computers, televisions and DVD players all use energy even when in standby mode;

• Check the insulation levels in your attic, exterior and basement walls, ceilings, floors and crawl spaces. Visit www.energysavers.gov for instructions on checking your insulation levels;

• Check for holes or cracks around your walls, ceilings, windows, doors, light and plumbing fixtures, switches, and electrical outlets that can leak air out of your home;

• Insulate your hot water heater and pipes;

• Combine your errands to increase fuel efficiency;

• Plug in your car at 20 degrees;

• Idle your car only for 30 seconds. The best way to warm it up is to drive!

In addition to statewide incentives, GVEA has established performance-based and utility rebate programs for ratepayers in the Interior.

Find more tips and information about energy savings at http://www.energysavers.gov/tips. What suggestions have you got to share? Drop us an email, or find us through social media:

http://facebook.com/alaskascott

@alaskascott

Working Hard for Fairbanks Families,

Scott Kawasaki
Alaska State Representative