Conserve for bright future

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Eric Bolt
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  A few simple changes can pay large dividends in energy costs savings. As the winter months approach servicemembers can start making changes in their home to conserve energy.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy Web site, "The typical U.S. family spends more than $1,600 a year on home utility bills. Unfortunately a large portion of that energy is wasted."

Small changes such as lowering the thermostat, energy efficient light bulbs and proper use of household lighting can quickly lower the price of energy costs.

Setting back the thermostat 10 degrees during the sleeping hours can cut energy cost 5 to 15 percent, said Dell Petersen, 28th Contracting Squadron systems engineering chief. The use of digital thermostats can also help retain comfort while saving on energy use. The thermostat can be set to automatically lower the temperature after a family has gone to bed and set back to a comfortable temperature prior to the family waking for the day.

"A general rule of thumb is a one degree set back over an eight hour period equals a one percent saving," he said. "This can save upwards of $600 per year for families who set back the thermostat while the house is empty or while they are all sleeping."

Changing out incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescents can improve the life of the bulb up to 10 times and fluorescents use nearly 75 percent less energy. Turning off lights in any room not in use, or consider using timers or motion sensors to reduce the amount of time lights are in use, he said.

"Coupling the use of new-and-improved fluorescents and good household practices will quickly increase energy saving," he said.

"The use of energy saving tips can not only lower overall energy cost, but also provide for a better environment," Mr. Petersen said. "Reducing our footprint on the Earth should be ranked high on everyone's priority list."

Families living on Ellsworth can ensure that their house is properly sealed from the winter winds and temperatures.

"The best thing for a family is to shield their home from the elements," he said. "Ensure that all windows and doors are properly sealed. If there are any issues with the weather-stripping on doors or windows, call the housing maintenance office to get it fixed. Housing maintenance can not fix what they don't know is broken," he said.

Housing maintenance can be contacted at 923-5808 to report all discrepancies.