Retail gurus estimate that more than 20 million electronic devices–smart phones, smart televisions, tablets and other energy-sucking doodads went online in the U.S. on Christmas Day. Even more will be bought in the hectic after-holiday sales now taking place. From the moment these devices are plugged in, they start adding to your electricity use at the same time that long nights and cold mornings make you want to nudge that new remote-controlled programmable thermostat up a notch. Higher energy usage–and bills–don’t need to be part of your 2015 reality, siphoning off your savings at the gas pump. “It is true that new electronics, whether they are dishwashers, tablets, smartphones or video games, are more energy efficient,” said Blaine Andreasen, Pacific Power’s vice president of customer service. “But the simple fact is we all have more of them than ever before. Combined with colder temperatures, this means you may want to take some simple steps to harness your power use before you get a surprise in your bill you would rather not have. As part of our dedication to helping you, Pacific Power wants to give you some tips that will let you enjoy your gadgets, stay warm and manage your power bill, too.” * “Unplug the thug” – Unplug chargers when not in use. They continue to draw energy while they are plugged in. * Shut off computers – Some computers and other electronics continue to use energy even when they’re in sleep mode. Plug computers, TVs and video game systems into a power strip that can be easily turned off when the equipment is not in use. * Adjust TV settings – Consider dimming the display on your TV to reduce brightness and contrast. ettings used for the retail showroom like “vivid” or “dynamic” typically use more energy. * Improve your home’s heating and cooling systems by cleaning or replacing furnace filters and scheduling routine system maintenance to help air flow through the system more efficiently. * Set your thermostat as low as comfortable; aim for 68 degrees. When you are asleep or out of the house, lower the temperature by another 10 degrees and this will reduce your energy usage by about 10 percent. Customers can find out more by going to pacificpower.net/tips or by calling 888- 221-7070 toll free anytime.
