Published on 04/01/2022
5 ways to reduce your energy usage this season
Instead of using the dryer on warm days, hang up your clothes and let the sun do the work. The energy you’ll save from not using your dryer will add up and help to lower your electricity bill.
Only using your washer and dryer once a week will also help to reduce your laundry’s electricity costs.
Spring cleaning is a great excuse to check those filters that you may not have looked at since last year. Old filters can cause your system to be inefficient and run longer.
Replacing a dirty, clogged filter with a clean one can actually reduce an AC's energy consumption by up to 15%.
Even if your system works great, small leaks in your home lead to increased heating and cooling costs. Sealing cracks in door frames, windows, and vents will provide a quick return on investment and is essential to your home's performance.
Did you know that heating up water can account for up to 20% of your electricity bill? To avoid wasting hot water:
Light-emitting diode (LED) lights use at least 75% less energy than standard incandescent lightbulbs and last up to 25x longer.
Reduce your lighting costs by switching your incandescent bulbs to LEDs. The upfront investment will pay for itself, and more, in the annual savings you’ll receive.
Our DIY Energy and Water Saving Toolkit helps with most of the tips mentioned above! It comes with free LED lightbulbs, weather-stripping, and low-flow showerheads for you to install. Visit any Mendocino or Sonoma County Library* to check one out for three weeks.
*Not available at the Forestville or Occidental branches.
You may be eligible for a reduced energy rate, bill payment assistance, financial support for home weatherization projects, or a payment forgiveness plan.
Financial assistance overview
Apply for CARE/FERA discount programs
Apply for Medical Baseline Program
Apply for a payment forgiveness plan
