A: In Colorado, residential customers use more energy during wintertime for heating. Other parts of the country will differ depending on their climate. You might notice that if you use natural gas for heating, it makes up the majority of your energy bill during winter months. According to the Department of Energy, heating and cooling comprise 45 percent of total home energy use. Hot water heaters come in second at 11 percent, refrigeration 6 percent, lighting 7 percent, dishwasher 2 percent, washer-dryer 10 percent and miscellaneous household appliances (including ranges and ovens) and electronics approximately 19 percent. When replacing appliances always look for the Energy Star[tm] designation to minimize kilowatt hour demand. To save a significant amount of money and energy during the more expensive winter months, consider lowering and/or programming your thermostat to be off when you aren't home (60 degrees should prevent water pipes from bursting), and lower when you are home (try 64 degrees and test your comfort level). In summer, electricity costs from air conditioning can make up the majority of your bill, so to save money and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, use window or attic fans to cool your house. Many locals use air conditioning on just the hottest 3 to 10 days of the summer. Smart use of window blinds and shades also makes a big difference in keeping your home cool.

ClimateSmart[tm] programs are headquartered in the city of Boulder's Office of Environmental Affairs and are funded by a tax on electricity use by city of Boulder residents and businesses. ClimateSmart programs span the entire county and offer energy and monetary benefits to all who participate. Learn more by visiting www.beClimateSmart.com.

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