• Summer: Set your thermostat as high as comfortably possible. The smaller the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your cooling cost.

Compact fluorescent lights use about 75% less energy than a comparable incandescent light bulb.

Many outages occur from high energy demand. Learn more about the types of power outages  from the California Independent System Operator (ISO).

Before an outage:

• Facts You Should Know About Portable Electric Generators
• Preparing for a Power Outage at Home

During an outage:

• Turn off major appliances (washers and dryers)
• Unplug sensitive electronics (TVs, VCRs, microwaves and computers)
• Leave a few light switches on so you’ll know when power returns

Contact SDG&E for online, mail-in, or in-home energy profiles.

Home Heating and Cooling

• Set thermostats efficiency
• Change air filters regularly
• Seal leaks and add insulation
• Install an ENERGY STAR thermostat
• Use ceiling fans correctly:
  • Summer: counterclockwise (for cooling)
  • Winter: clockwise (to circulate warm air)
• Add or replace old windows with energy-efficient ones to reduce drafts and heat loss
• Install a whole-house fan to bring in cool air and push out hot air trapped in the attic

Appliance and Lighting

• Turn off or unplug unused electronics
• Run full loads in dishwashers and laundry machines
• Use cold water for washing and rinsing
• Replace old bulbs with ENERGY STAR LEDs or CFLs (compact fluorescent)

Water Heating

• Set water heater to 120 degrees F
• Wrap older heaters with insulation blankets (if manufacturer allows)
• Install low-flow showerheads

Transportation

• Drive under 60 mph for better fuel economy
• Combine trips to reduce miles traveled
• Wal, bike, or use public transit when possible
• Maintain your vehicle and remove unnecessary weight or racks

Links for rebates and incentives:

• California Solar Initiative
  • New Solar Homes Partnership
• Solar Thermal Program
• Energy Upgrade California
• Fannie Mae Green Initiative Loan Program
• Property Tax Exclusion for Solar Energy Systems
• Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit

Links for low-income energy assistance programs:

• Energy Savings Assistance Program
• Low-Income Solar Water Heating Rebate Program
• Single-Family Affordable Solar Housing Program

For additional home energy advice visit:

• EPA Energy Star Conservation Tips
• EPA Home Remodeling for Energy Efficiency