Page 7 - 2023 Summer BPU Connection-WQR FINAL v10 PDF

2023 Water Rate Proposal How to Reduce How to Reduce
WATER CONSUMPTION

ENERGY USAGE This Summer

This Summer water and reduce water consumption this summer, including:
There are a few simple things you can do to conserve

As we enter the summer months, here are some INSIDE YOUR HOME:
tips to beat the heat, lower usage, and reduce your
carbon footprint: In the kitchen: Laundry:
✓ Give your air conditioner a checkup. The ✓ When cooking peel and clean ✓ Run full loads of laundry.
vegetables in a large bowl of water
✓ When buying a washing machine,
efficiency of your cooling system is one of instead of under running water.
the biggest factors in reducing energy costs. get a water saver model that can
Clearing or cleaning a clogged A/C unit filter can ✓ Fill your sink or basin when washing adjust to the load size.
save 5 to 15% in energy use and will help keep and rinsing dishes.
the unit in proper working order. ✓ Only run the dishwasher when it's OUTSIDE YOUR HOME:
full.
✓ Adjust your thermostat. Keep your thermostat ✓ Only use the garbage disposal when ✓ Set the mower blades to 2-3 inches
at a temperature just cool enough to keep you necessary (composting is a great high. Longer grass shades the soil
comfortable, and then bump it up one degree! alternative). improving moisture retention.
One study found that each degree a thermostat ✓ Only water the lawn when necessary.
is set above 75⁰F could save 10-15% in energy ✓ Install faucet aerators. Avoid doing so on windy and
used. In the bathroom: hot days and only water in the
✓ Use fans instead of/or to supplement A/C. ✓ Take short showers instead of baths. morning or late evening to reduce
evaporation.
Fans use 1/60th the energy of an air conditioner.
While they don’t cool the air, they pull body ✓ Turn off the water to brush teeth, ✓ When washing a car wet it quickly,
heat away from your skin, and can be used shave and soap up in the shower. Fill then use a bucket of water to wash
in conjunction with air conditioning, letting the sink to shave. the car and only turn on the hose to
you raise your thermostat a few degrees while ✓ Repair leaky toilets. Add 12 drops of final rinse.
remaining comfortable. Ceiling fans make food coloring into the tank, and if ✓ Always use a broom to clean
rooms feel four degrees cooler. color appears in the bowl one hour walkways, driveways, and porches
rather than hosing off these areas.
✓ Use electricity during off-peak hours. The later your toilet is leaking.
time of day you use electricity is also important. ✓ Install a toilet dam, faucet aerators
Shifting energy use to “off peak” hours – early and low-flow showerheads.
morning or late at night – you can help reduce
load on the grid and lower energy costs. Utility Assistance Programs continued from page 1
✓ Unplug devices. Unplugging devices or using Utility Payment Arrangement Options –
smart power strips can help reduce energy costs BPU will work with customers on payment options.
by eliminating “phantom” or “standby” electricity The sooner a customer reaches out, the more BPU
that appliances, chargers, and standard power and others can do to assist. We understand that
strips use, even when not in use. special circumstances arise and will work to assist
✓ Block the sun with shades and drapes. When whenever possible. Simply call 913-573-9145 to
fully pulled down and closed over a window inquire.
with a lot of sun exposure, blinds can reduce Customer Payment Hardship Program –
heat gain by up to 45%. This program can assist in offsetting utility expenses
✓ Close doors & vents. Closing doors and A/C related to unemployment/income status, health
emergencies, etc. Administered by the United Way,
vents in rooms that are not in use can help make
your cooling system more efficient, and cuts call the Hardship Hotline at 913-371-6772 or 2-1-1
back on cooling rooms no one is in or closets. for more info and eligibility requirements.
✓ Plants provide much needed shade. Planting Utility Assistance Program – BPU provides funding disbursed via the United
Way to several human service partner agencies including Avenue of Life, El Centro,
shrubs and trees on the south and west sides Cross-Lines, and others. More than 1,500 families have utilized these services, simply
of your house, or at least over your outdoor A/C dial 2-1-1.
unit, can make your cooling system up to 10%
Community Assistance Programs – Numerous organizations and programs
more efficient.
are available to provide utility assistance as needed, including the Salvation Army, the
LIHEAP fund, and others. Go to www.bpu.com for more info.
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