energy efficiency Archives | Citizens Utility Board

Tips for fighting high summer electric bills, and staying safe and cool

Jim Chilsen — Sat, 21 Jun 2025 11:30:00 +0000

Check out our tips to stay cool, safe and energy efficient during the hot summer: Be safe. Efficiency means staying safe and cool while reducing your energy waste. Raising your thermostat by a few degrees and using a ceiling fan can lower air conditioning costs over the summer. Just be smart about it—don’t raise the temperature to an unsafe level. Many utilities have recommended setting the thermostat at about 75-78 degrees when you’re at home and awake. At night or when you’re away, bump it up a few degrees. Changing your thermostat by 7° to 10°F (up in the summer, down in the winter) from its normal setting for 8 hours a day can save you about 10 percent a year on heating and cooling, according to the Energy Department. Again, never take any risks with your health. Efficiency is about staying safe and cool. Use fans. Fans alone aren’t adequate in a heat wave, but they can be used with an air conditioner—so you don’t have to blast the AC. Run a ceiling fan counter-clockwise, from your position looking up at it, to create a downdraft, and make sure to turn off your fan when you leave the room. (Fans cool people, not rooms.) Give your AC a break. Prevent hot air from seeping in by sealing the gaps around windows and doors. (Check out sealing/insulation tips from Energy Star.) Shut blinds or shades during the daytime hours to prevent the sun from cooking your home and your air conditioner from working harder to cool it. At cooler times of the day (night and morning) or on milder, less humid days, open up windows and use screens to let refreshing air come in. Clean or replace your air conditioning unit filters about once every 1-2 months during the cooling season to make sure your AC is running efficiently. If you have central air, schedule your yearly check up with the HVAC technician. (Here’s an AC maintenance guide from the Department of Energy.) Make sure your AC is sized properly for the space to be cooled. Contrary to popular belief, a larger unit will not cool a room better. A properly-sized AC unit will be more efficient, and it will keep the space at a constant temperature and a comfortable humidity level. Shut it down. Even when electronic devices are powered off, many are still using electricity if they are plugged in. This is called vampire power or phantom load, which can account for 25 percent of a product’s electric usage on average. Turn off and unplug extra appliances that produce more heat and make your home hotter (TV, computers, laptops, lights), and make sure to unplug your phone charger. Leaving your smartphone plugged in to a charger overnight not only wastes electricity, but it also strains the batteries over time. Turn off lights in empty rooms. Use a smart power strip. For computers and entertainment systems a smart power strip can be helpful. These strips help you cut down energy costs associated with products that go into standby mode. Avoid hot tasks. Delay heat-producing tasks, such as dishwashing, baking, or […]

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Save energy and money with these winter efficiency tips

Sophia — Wed, 01 Jan 2025 21:05:38 +0000

Energy efficiency tips for getting through Illinois’ rough winters: Get rid of the clutter. Make sure heating vents are open and not blocked by furniture or carpet. Clean dust from vents or along baseboard heaters. Weatherstrip. Weatherstripping can be used to seal air leaks around doors and windows. By keeping warm air in and preventing cold outside air from leaking indoors, weatherstripping can help you save on your heating bills. This is especially true in older homes with leaky windows and doors. Energy.gov’s helpful fact sheet breaks down your weatherstripping options and provides some installation guidance. (Also, if you have storm doors or windows, make sure to install them before the cold arrives. Now is a good time to inspect and repair them, if necessary.) Utilize your blinds. During the day, open your blinds and let sunlight warm and light your home. Once the sun goes down, close your blinds to prevent cold air from getting in. If you still feel cold air coming from your windows, consider the weatherstripping tips above. You also can seal windows with clear plastic wrap and purchasing insulated curtains for additional layers of defense. Be smart about your thermostat. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that consumers can save up to 10% on their energy bills by turning the thermostat down 7-10 degrees for eight hours a day. The Energy Department recommends keeping your thermostat at about 68-70 degrees when you’re home and awake, and lowering it when you’re leaving the house or going to sleep. Don’t ever set it below 55 degrees–that risks freezing your pipes. Consider buying a programmable or smart thermostat. Check the attic. Insulating your attic can be the most cost-effective way to cut heating costs. Look across your attic floor. If the insulation is even with or below the attic floor joists, it’s time to add more. (CUB has some great tips on picking the right insulation in our WatchBlog article: Do-it-Yourself Home Energy Audit.) Switch the direction of your fan. In the winter, your fan should rotate clockwise (from your position looking up at it) at the slowest speed. Turning clockwise, the fan’s blades pull cold air up, which then pushes warm air down toward the room’s occupants. Used in combination with a wise temperature setting, this tip can save consumers up to 15 percent on their winter bills. If you’re not sure how to change the direction of your ceiling fan, watch CUB’s quick how-to video. Clean or change your furnace filter monthly, or as recommended. This is an important maintenance step to ensure your furnace is operating properly and efficiently. You should check your filter monthly. (See heating tips from the Department of Energy. Also, before the winter, try to schedule an HVAC inspection with a reputable contractor. Most systems last 10 to 15 years but can last longer and run more efficiently with maintenance. An inspector can check your system to ensure everything is working properly.) Prepare the fireplace. Make sure your fireplace is inspected and cleaned before you use it in the winter. When you’re not using your fireplace, make sure the damper is closed to prevent warm air from […]

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CUB update: What about those appliance rebates in the Inflation Reduction Act?

Elizabeth — Fri, 08 Nov 2024 21:50:40 +0000

CUB gets a lot of questions from consumers wondering when they’ll be able to enjoy appliance rebates offered through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). We’ve got information about where Illinois is in the process of launching that rebate program–as well as some proposed changes to it. The IRA, federal legislation that the president signed into law in 2022, contains several tax credits and rebates helping consumers to improve their home’s energy efficiency and enjoy the benefits of electrification. Some provisions are available to Illinois consumers now, including: Home Energy Efficiency and Weatherization Tax Credit: Allows consumers to claim up to $1,200 a year until 2033 for energy efficiency upgrades, such as home energy audits and electric panel upgrades. It provides a separate $2,000 one-time tax credit for space or water heater upgrades. Clean Energy Tax Credit: Allows consumers to receive up to 30 percent of project costs back for rooftop solar, geothermal heat pumps, or battery storage. Additionally, there is a $7,500 income-qualified tax credit available for new electric vehicles. However, so far, Illinois has not implemented another IRA provision: the Home Electrification and Appliance Rebate (HEAR). In order to receive federal funding and launch the rebate program, each state must submit an application and receive approval by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (Office of Energy) submitted its HEAR application in the summer of 2024, and it’s currently awaiting DOE approval. While we wait, here’s more information about the program as well as changes to the incentives that will be offered: A big advantage of the HEAR rebate is that – unlike the tax credits we describe above – it’s accessible even if you don’t owe federal taxes. Under the HEAR program, Illinois consumers will be able to receive rebates of up to $14,000 on home electrification projects, and the program will give them the flexibility to mix and match from different rebate categories. For example, a consumer could receive multiple rebates–such as up to $840 for an electric stove and up to $8,000 for an electric heat pump–until they hit the $14,000 cap. Once it gets the OK to launch the program, the Illinois EPA plans to modify the income qualifications so that lower median income households can access program funds first. Initially, the program was designed for consumers at or below 80 percent to 150 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI). Consumers at 80 percent AMI or less were able to take advantage of rebates covering the full cost of a project, up to the $14,000 cap. Anyone who fell at 81 percent to 150 percent AMI were eligible to have half of the project cost covered, up to the $14,000 cap. But Illinois has proposed changing eligibility to lower-income households (80 percent AMI or lower) only and adjusting funding distribution, based on demand and interest. Another important detail: Unlike with programs in other states, the Illinois EPA has said they are not planning to issue retroactive rebates through this program. This is different from other states’ programs, so it’s important to note this when planning your energy efficiency upgrades. As […]

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Huntley resident wins energy-awareness quiz giveaway

Sophia — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 18:15:50 +0000

Congratulations to George of Huntley for winning CUB’s Energy Awareness Quiz giveaway! He was randomly selected out of hundreds of participants to win $100. Thanks to George and everyone who took the challenge. For more information about energy efficiency and tips, go to CUB’s Clean Energy page. Here are the answers to the quiz: 10 Correct: Energy Genius! 8-9 Correct: Energy Expert! 5-7 Correct: Energy Expert in Training! 0-4 Correct: That’s ok! If you’d like, you can sign up for a free utility bill analysis. Email photos or copies of your bills to UBC@citizensutilityboard.org. A staffer will review your bills and follow up with you via email or phone. 1) True or False: Electricity and gas prices are down from last year. True! In October, gas prices are down by a whopping 53-69% from last October. (The prices also are down in November.) And electricity prices are down about 30-34 percent from last October. Be wary if an alternative supplier claims prices are up, or if they seem to guarantee you savings. Nobody can do that. 2) True or False: If I’m getting a bill from my utility company, I’m not with an alternative supplier. False! Getting a bill from your utility company is no guarantee that you’re not with an alternative supplier. Because the utility owns all the pipes/wires, you will always pay those companies to deliver the gas/electricity to your home. If you are with an alternative supplier, those charges will be included on the supply section of your utility bill. CUB has a fact sheet on where ComEd and Ameren customers should look to see if they’re with an alternative supplier. Check your bills regularly–a lot of consumers tell us they didn’t even know they were with a supplier until their bills went up. Read our tips on avoiding rip-offs. 3) True or False: If you’re having trouble paying your utility bills, you are always protected from getting your service shut off in the summer or winter. False! It’s a myth that the utility can never disconnect your heat in the winter or your electricity in the summer. There are regulations that prevent disconnections during extreme cold or heat, but they’re not applicable to every account and circumstance. Don’t ever assume you’re protected. Residential accounts deemed to be in compliance with state regulations are safe from disconnection: When the temperature is below 32 degrees or expected to fall below 32 degrees within the next 24-hour period, and disconnection would affect your heat. When the temperature is above 95 degrees or expected to rise above 95 degrees within the next 24-hour period (electricity only). (Note: Thanks to the work of Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul, this is changing to 90 degrees on Jan. 1, 2024. And people will also be protected when the National Weather Service issues an excessive heat watch, heat advisory, or excessive heat warning covering the area of the utility in which their residence is located.) On any day preceding a weekend or holiday when temperatures are expected to meet the above criteria. If it’s between December 1 and March 31 AND if the utility accepted LIHEAP funds on […]

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Saving energy and money at home– the renter’s edition

Elizabeth — Mon, 22 May 2023 16:11:32 +0000

By: Kate Shonk Sustainable Communities Liason The summer cooling season is upon us, and at CUB we’re here to help all Illinoisans save energy and money. For consumers who rent their homes, it can be hard to have control over their building’s efficiency measures–but you still have options. Even if you don’t pay an electric bill, it’s a good idea not to waste energy, for the sake of the power grid and the planet. To start, a simple way to weatherize a rental could involve air-sealing any drafts around windows or doors. This includes using weatherstripping, caulk, or plastic over windows. Once the home is better sealed, it’s easier to keep the air inside and use less energy to cool a residence. The next step is changing your usage habits. In a hot summer, there are ways to reduce a spike in usage from air conditioning: Use fans and open windows before reverting to air conditioning. Make sure any ceiling fans are flipped to summer mode (run counterclockwise), to create a downdraft. Watch CUB’s video. If you do need to use your AC, be conscious about the temperature setting. Always defer to your own health and comfort, but aim to keep your AC set at about 74 degrees. Turn off your AC or any fans before leaving your apartment. Make sure the AC unit is properly sized for the room. Visit this EnergyStar webpage to learn how to size your AC. Regularly clean the filter on your AC unit. Additionally, while air conditioning will account for a large majority of your summer electric bill, you can still save energy by unplugging unused devices and appliances. Vampire power – or power wasted from appliances and devices left plugged in – can account for around 23 percent of a home’s power consumption. Similarly, lighting accounts for around 15 percent of consumption. Be sure to turn off any lights not in use, and switch out any old light bulbs for LED bulbs. In addition to DIY weatherization and efficiency, utility companies do offer programs geared toward renters. An important program to check out is the Multi-Family Home Energy Assessment offered by ComEd, Nicor, Peoples Gas, Northshore Gas, and Ameren. Through this free offering, an energy advisor can do a comprehensive walkthrough of your unit to see where you can be more energy efficient. Along with the walkthrough, the program includes free energy-efficient products, such as LED light bulbs, programmable thermostats, efficient showerheads, advanced power strips, and more. Important note for renters: You must receive consent from your landlord or property manager before participating. At the bottom of this article, we’ve included a sample email or call script to receive permission from your landlord to participate. For a more comprehensive overview of energy efficiency and demand response programs, community solar, and all things utility-related for renters, order a free copy of CUB’s Renter’s Utility Guide! Sample Letter: Subject line: Request for Home Energy Assessment Approval Greetings, I hope this message finds you well! I’m a resident of (address), and I’m writing to receive your approval to participate in the Home Energy Savings program offered […]

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Tips on getting your home ready for hot weather

Jim Chilsen — Wed, 22 Mar 2023 19:25:33 +0000

Summer is just around the corner and it’s time to start planning to get your home ready for warmer weather. Remember: Energy efficiency is just as important during the summer as it is during the winter. Not only does it help prevent power outages by easing stress on the grid, but it can also help you cut your energy bills. Here’s a checklist of tips: Air conditioning maintenance. Clean or replace your air conditioning unit filters every 30-45 days to ensure proper and efficient performance. Also, have an HVAC specialist inspect your air conditioner at least yearly. A properly maintained AC system can help you save hundreds of dollars a year. Check your windows and doors. After a long, cold and wet winter, there may be damage that could cause cool air to escape in the summer, taking your hard-earned money with it! Check for any leaks or cracks and seal them with weatherstripping or caulk from the hardware store. Utilize your ceiling fans. In the summer, run your ceiling fans counterclockwise to push cool air down. Circulating cool air will reduce the need for your air conditioner to work as hard, saving energy and money. (See CUB’s video.) Don’t forget to turn off the fan when you leave the room. Bonus tip: If you haven’t used your ceiling fans since last summer, be sure to wipe down the blades to remove any dust that has accumulated. Consider upgrading your thermostat. If you want more control of your energy bills this summer, consider replacing your old thermostat with a programmable model or a smart thermostat. Smart thermostats use sensors that continuously monitor temperature, humidity, and other variables throughout your home. According to Energystar.gov, smart thermostats save customers 8 percent on heating and cooling bills yearly, on average. Check with your utility and take advantage of rebates that are available. Get a free assessment. Many utilities offer home energy assessments at no cost to the customer. During these assessments, an expert will go over any energy efficiency opportunities in your home and may provide you with free products to get you going in the right direction. Inquire with your utility company about such services. Get more information on CUB’s Clean Energy page.

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A guide to energy efficiency programs for income-qualified households

Elizabeth — Thu, 09 Feb 2023 22:41:47 +0000

By Kate Shonk Sustainable Communities Liason Facing high energy prices and the rising cost of living, many consumers want to cut down on their monthly utility bills. In Illinois, consumers have access to energy efficiency programs offered by utility companies–including ones for income-qualified households. The programs designed for lower-income customers can vary slightly between utility companies and may not be available to those serviced by municipal or cooperative utilities. Below is a summary so you can easily connect to these money-saving programs. Home Energy Assessments Every investor-owned utility in Illinois offers its own version of a home energy assessment. Through this program, a consumer can sign up to have an energy advisor visit their home and conduct tests to find potential energy-wasting areas. Once the walk-through is complete, they will offer participants free or discounted energy-efficient products, and even install them. Ameren customers must be at or below 300 percent of the federal poverty level to participate in the Income Qualified Home Energy Assessment. MidAmerican customers may be eligible for a HomeCheck online assessment and a free energy efficiency kit equipped with LED light bulbs, advanced power strips, a low-flow showerhead, and a bathroom faucet aerator. In the ComEd, Nicor Gas, Peoples Gas and North Shore Gas service areas, all consumers can schedule a single or multi-family Home Energy Assessment and receive free LEDs, hot water pipe insulation, an energy-efficient showerhead, and more. If households also meet specified income guidelines, they are eligible for added energy efficiency retrofits. For example, income-eligible consumers can receive free advanced power strips and smart thermostats. Other Programs for Income-eligible Households ComEd: ComEd partners with food pantries to offer free LED light bulbs, weather stripping and other efficient products. ComEd also partners with Community Action Agencies to distribute energy-saving kits. Lastly, ComEd offers income-eligible instant discounts on energy-efficient products at various retailers. Peoples Gas and North Shore: In Peoples Gas and North Shore territory, Public Housing Authorities can receive assistance for energy efficiency upgrades. In addition, owners of multifamily properties that are designated as income-eligible can qualify for energy efficiency retrofits. Renters can alert their property manager to the opportunity. Nicor Gas While not specific to income-eligible residents, Nicor offers free water-saving and weatherization kits to all customers. Illinois Home Weatherization Assistance Program (IHWAP) For additional assistance with weatherization and energy efficiency, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) offers IHWAP. Households must be at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty level to receive state funds and 200 percent of the federal poverty level to receive federal Department of Energy and Health and Human Services funds. For more information, visit DCEO’s webpage or call (217) 785-2533. About the author: Kate Shonk started at CUB in 2022. She serves as the main contact for grassroots outreach events and works to advocate for Illinois consumers. Kate graduated from the University of Michigan in 2020 with degrees in English and Political Science. Her favorite part about working for CUB is combining her passions for community organizing and environmental policy. In her free time, she enjoys crocheting, writing, and staying active around the city.

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Preparing for an Expensive Summer: Your Energy Efficiency Shopping List

Elizabeth — Wed, 18 May 2022 18:35:29 +0000

In 2021, homes across the country used about 235 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity to cool their homes–that’s about 16 percent of total residential energy consumption. So as we prepare for an expensive summer, it pays to improve your home’s efficiency. CUB put together a home-improvement shopping list for better energy efficiency on any budget. The prices listed below are estimates based on a CUB review of energy efficiency items on home improvement store websites. (Also, ComEd customers, check out the utility’s Marketplace.) Remember, when shopping for products, look for the Energy Star label, signifying high efficiency. For Lower Budgets: Under $25 At Home Energy Assessment (Free)- Before heading to the store, find out if you can get some of these items for free. Call your electric utility to ask about a free home energy assessment. During an assessment, an energy advisor will walk through your home to suggest improvements and install money-saving products, such as LEDs and efficient showerheads. Learn more about: ComEd’s Home Energy Assessment program Ameren’s program (This free service is for customers who meet income requirements.) LED Light Bulbs ($7) – switch out your incandescent light bulbs for LEDs, which last 10-25 times longer and can save you $30-80 over their lifetime. They add light without putting out heat like traditional bulbs, so you won’t need to worry about the lights working against your AC. In Illinois, you can get discounted bulbs, thanks to energy efficiency programs that CUB supported. Weatherstripping ($10) – Help seal small cracks around windows and doors with weather stripping. (Tips here.) Expanding Spray Foam ($5) is a great alternative for hidden areas, such as the garage, basement and attic. Faucet Aerator ($5) – This doesn’t deal with electricity but it’s still a money-saver. Use an aerator to add air and water pressure to your faucets without increasing the amount of water put out. A win-win – conserving water without sacrificing comfort. For Moderate Budgets: Over $25 Blinds or curtains ($25+) – Adding blinds, curtains, and drapery can help block out sunlight, which can reduce heat gains by 33%. Close your curtains or blinds while away from home to help keep your house cooler. Smart Power Strip ($30+) – Smart power strips are a great way to cut out vampire energy drains in your home by turning off power where it isn’t needed. One such smart power strip from Energizer offers an app to create custom schedules based on your daily routine and is voice control compatible with Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant. Air Filters ($30) – If you have Central Air, change and clean your filters about every 90 days (or about every 30-60 days for pet owners) to help your HVAC system work more efficiently. If you have a room air conditioner, it’s recommended that you dust and wash the filter every month to keep it in top shape. Low-Flow Shower Head ($25+) – Much like a faucet aerator, a low-flow showerhead works to improve flow in a showerhead with air to conserve more water. Check for the WaterSense label when purchasing and use the EPA’s online search tool for more […]

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The UN’s Bold Climate Change Solution

Elizabeth — Thu, 21 Apr 2022 19:18:06 +0000

A United Nations panel has released its third and final report on climate change, and following the dire warnings in the first two installments, this one strikes a hopeful tone with scientists’ plans for the world’s path forward. The United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released the last of a three-part report, “Climate Change 2022: Impacts, Adaptation and Vulnerability,” earlier this year. The solution is elegantly simple, according to the report: Concentrate on demand over supply. Traditionally economists have looked at supply and demand to determine how much of a good or service (supply) is needed to meet the needs of the people. Instead of focusing on supply, the report suggests taking a deeper look at demand and being more responsive to what people need versus how much can be produced. The Fossil Fuel Industry claims people living in poverty need fossil fuels to get out of poverty. Instead, Julia Steinberger, a contributor to the report, proposes another perspective. “Energy is a means for people to get services, so let’s think about how we deliver those services in a more efficient way,” said Steinberger, an environmental economist. Changing the way we look at energy demand has the potential of limiting 40-70% of emissions by 2050. This demand-side solution doesn’t mean giving up the comforts of our daily lives, it means being more mindful of what we use while funding clean energy climate solutions, cutting down on fossil fuels, and prioritizing sustainable, equitable policies for all. For example, researchers at Yale have developed a Decent Living Energy model to better understand how much energy would be required for everyone in the world to live at a decent living standard. Despite the Fossil Industry’s claims, the model suggests eradicating poverty and providing decent housing options for all could help cut the world’s energy consumption demands in half. As it stands, households in the top 10% alone (in Illinois, households making over $245,173) make up for 36-45% of global emissions. If you’re looking for an in-depth breakdown of the report, CUB recommends Drilled Podcast’s report summary from climate reporter Amy Westervelt. “The report made one thing abundantly clear: the technologies and policies necessary to adequately address climate change exist,” Westervelt clarifies. “The only real obstacles are politics and fossil fuel interests.” If you want to do your part at home, here are some steps to start making a difference: Visit CUB’s Clean Energy page to learn about efficiency programs and actions that are both good for the planet and reduce your costs. Speaking of demand, Illinois has “demand-response” programs that are good for the planet as well as your pocketbook. Check them out. Join the CUB Action Network– The action network allows you to send messages to policymakers on key energy issues. Thousands of Illinois consumers took action over the last few years and helped pass the Climate & Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA), historic legislation that represents Illinois’ biggest step yet in fighting climate change. Currently, one of our biggest legislative battles is trying to eliminate a surcharge that’s helping to increase bills for consumers who rely on fossil fuel […]

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For Earth Month (and every month): Fight Climate Change at Home

Elizabeth — Mon, 18 Apr 2022 22:08:25 +0000

You can reduce your carbon footprint with a few simple tips to help you save money, save the planet, and save your peace of mind. Utility-Based Programs Check with your utility about any energy efficiency programs available to residents. Free at-home energy assessments are offered by ComEd and Ameren. They offer free efficiency upgrades (LED bulbs, low-flow showerheads, programmable thermostats) and will install them on the spot. “Demand response” programs reward you for using less energy during peak energy usage hours and thus help you save money while saving the planet. For example, ComEd’s Peak Time Savings and Ameren’s Peak Time Rewards programs both offer credits on your power bill for reducing energy consumption when the demand is high. Also, learn more about ComEd’s Hourly Pricing and Ameren’s Power Smart Pricing programs. They charge you an hourly, and often lower, rate for power during off-peak times. Those programs have been saving customers an average of 10-15 percent on the supply portion of bills. Check on community solar deals available in your area for ways to enjoy the benefits of solar energy without installing your own solar panels. Solar for All is Illinois’ solar program for lower-income participants. This could be a perfect fit for renters and apartment dwellers. (Visit the Solar for All website to see if you qualify.) DIY Energy Efficiency You can also increase energy efficiency with a few simple home maintenance tips. Clean your air conditioning unit and filters to make sure they are running efficiently, and if you have central air, schedule your yearly check up with the HVAC technician. Be smart about the AC–put it at the right temperature during the summer, and turn it off when you’re not at home to cut energy costs. Keep the cold air in by locating and sealing drafts in windows, doors, and floors. Many Illinois utilities offer rebates for sealing and insulation. Energy Star has a great guide for getting started, and don’t forget to check the attic and crawl spaces. For your ceiling fans, this is a good time of year to change direction. Run it counterclockwise, from your position looking up at it, to push cool air down. Using a fan and bumping up your thermostat a few degrees will save your comfort and money. In the cooler evenings, consider opening a window to cool off the house, before you close it up the next morning. CUB Supporters’ Tips We get some of our best tips from you. For Earth Month, we’re asking CUB supporters to fill out a survey on how to fight climate change at home for the chance to win a bundle of LED light bulbs, and potentially save hundreds of dollars. Here are a few favorite tips we’ve received so far: “I do several basic things: adjusting my thermostat, lowering the setting on my hot water tank (CUB note: Setting it at 120 degrees, or the “warm” setting, is recommended) turning off lights when not needed, recycling, using my own bags when grocery shopping. I also combine errands, so driving is kept to a minimum.” -Thomas “We subscribe to a community solar power […]

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