In this write-in advice column, Energy Services Manager Brooke McNeill and Energy Efficiency Specialist Doug Loflin answer your questions about the topics on your mind.

This cost-conscious edition of Ask Your Energy Advisors provides tips to incorporate into your daily routine. These steps can help you reduce your energy consumption, save money on your bill and contribute to a more sustainable environment.

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Staying out of Hot Water

Dear Brooke and Doug,

I don’t believe it can get any hotter outside, so a cold shower is a wonderful way for me to cool off. I’ve encouraged my family to do the same, but they will not. Meanwhile, my utility bills are higher than ever. Is there any way to convince them that a cool shower is refreshing for the body and the pocketbook?

Sincerely,
Feeling the Heat in High Falls

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Dear Feeling,

There is a sneaky way to get your family to take cooler showers and see at least some savings on your power bill. It all starts with focusing on your water heater.If you set your water heater to 120°F (49°C), you should see some savings. The default setting is usually 140°F. However, we see many families with small children who reset to 120°F to prevent the possibility of scalding. This safety measure also results in energy savings. The only reason not to lower the temperature is if you have an immuno-compromised person in your household. Also, if your water heater is not insulated, you may be paying more for energy. Many newer models are better insulated and more energy efficient than ever. You can check to see if your water heater is doing its job and saving you money. Look at the product sticker on the tank or find the manual associated with your heater. If the R-value is under 24, then your heater needs insulation. You can purchase a blanket kit at a local hardware store or by calling an experienced professional technician. We hope that these tips help your family stay calm, cool and collected!

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Betting on Dirty Laundry

Dear Brooke and Doug,

Can you settle a bet? My sister says it’s best to let your dirty laundry build up over time and run big loads in the washing machine. I say it’s better to wash a load a day, no matter if it’s a big load or a small load. Which is the better choice? (My sister and I are very competitive, and there is a steak dinner riding on this.)

Suspicious Sister in Seagrove

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Dear Suspicious,

We hate to break it to you, but your sister is correct on this one, at least from an energy efficiency standpoint! While it may keep you much more on track to wash a load of laundry every day, it is actually more efficient to wait until you have a full load of dirty clothes. Running a full machine takes as much energy as running a partially full machine.We know you didn’t ask about the dishwasher, but the same principle is true there, also. It’s best to accumulate a lot of dirty dishes, and then run the automatic dishwasher. Turning off the dry cycle and allowing the dishes to drip dry also helps save money on your power bill.We’re sorry about the dinner, but a good steak can go a long way in building a strong relationship with your loved one. Please let us know if we can settle any more sisterly debates in the future.

Sincerely,

Brooke McNeill
Energy Services Manager

Doug Loflin
Energy Efficiency Specialist