The East Grand Forks Water and Light Department encourages you to be energy-wise. Energy conservation makes sense in more ways than you may think. By curtailing energy use, you not only help save on your energy bill each month, you also protect and conserve our natural resources for future generations.

Some simple ways to conserve energy are:

• Turn off lights that are not in use.
• Consider installing compact fluorescent bulbs, they use up to 75% less energy than ordinary incandescent bulbs.
• When buying appliances, consider the annual energy use listed in the product information. This will tell you how energy efficient this model is compared with similar products.
• Check ventialtion systems for dirty and/or clogged filters. A dirty filter means your heater or air conditioner has to work harder to give you the same result.
• Consider turning your thermostat up a few degrees in the winter. Put a coat or a sweater on to warm you up instead of reaching for that dial. For each degree you lower your thermostat in winter, you can save about 3 percent on your heating bill.
• The same idea applies in the summer, keep your thermostat at a modest setting to save on your electric bill. A house kept at 78 will still feel cool when it is 90 degrees outside, and save energy as well.
• Consider the Miles Per Gallon (MPG) rating when considering a new vehicle purchsase.
• Fix leaky faucets, all of those drops add up.
• Check your home for leaks around windows and doors. Replace worn gaskets, and caulk the leaks around door and windows where they meet the walls.
• Check the insulation in the attic, keep the heat in your home from going through the roof!
• If replacing windows, select replacements that have a high e-rating.