Vermillion Light & Power offers energy saving tips

According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the average family spends close to $1,300 each year on electricity, nearly 45 percent of these energy expenses go toward heating and cooling. Unfortunately, much of this electricity is wasted through inefficient use. With cool weather coming around the corner, Vermillion Light & Power offers these tips to help community members use less electricity to lower monthly bills and protect the environment.

? Keep draperies and shades on your south-facing windows open during the day to allow sunlight to enter your room. Close the draperies at night to reduce the chill from cold windows.

? Keep the temperature fairly constant, as frequent changes will use more energy. Setting back the temperature at night, however, is recommended.

? Clean or replace filters on furnaces once a month.

? Use ventilating fans wisely; in just one hour, these fans can pull out a houseful of warmed air.

More tips are available at the DOE's Web site www.doe.gov.

Public Power Week is being held in conjunction with the American Public Power Association (APPA) in Washington, DC, the national service organization for not-for-profit community- and state-owned electric utilities.