Residential Energy Survey Program

Through the Residential Energy Survey Program, auditors give a customer written recommendations on energy saving measures and practices, and inspect the duct system and attic insulation. The customer is also given infor-mational brochures on conservation.

This program is available to most customers in Florida through their local electric company. Contact your utility to schedule a survey.

When washing your car, use a bucket for soapy water, only use the hose when rinsing, and use a low-flow nozzle.

Check your sprinkler coverage. There is no need to water the streets.

Use a rake and broom (not your hose) to clean sidewalks, driveways and gutters.

Water Conservation

Florida is fortunate to have the country’s largest underground freshwater reserves. Since Florida’s aquifers hold so much potable water, many residents view the supply as endless. Unfortunately, it is not. In many parts of our state, there is visible evidence of the severe depletion that is occurring within our underground reservoir system due to population growth, development, and saltwater intrusion.

The Florida Public Service Commission feels it is imperative for consumers to become informed and active in the conservation of our water supply. The benefits of reduced water consumption will also be reflected in lower water bills.

Saving at home

A significant reduction in water use can be made by implementing some water-saving tips in the household.

• Lower the water level in the toilet.
  
• Throw tissues and other trash in a waste basket, not the toilet.
  
• Five gallons of water is used on each flush.
  
• Avoid leaving the water running while brushing your teeth or shaving.
  
• Replace your toilet or shower head with a low-flow water-saving model.
  
• Take showers instead of baths.
  

The Kitchen/Laundry Room

• Wash only full loads in your dishwasher. Automatic dishwashers use 20 gallons of water per cycle, regardless of load size.
  
• When you wash dishes by hand, don’t leave the water running.
  
• Do not use running water to thaw meat or frozen foods.
  
• Use the proper load setting when you use your washing machine.
  
• Use your garbage disposal sparingly.
  
• During basic maintenance or repairs, check all pipes in order to prevent future leaks.
  

Your water meter can be used to detect any leaks. Turn off all sources of water inside and outside the home. Read the water meter, wait about 15 minutes and read it again. If the reading changes, there is a leak. Leaks are often the result of a worn-out washer in a faucet. Replacing a washer is a simple procedure. Even the slightest leak can cause a significant increase in a consumer’s electric or water bill.

Check for toilet tank leaks by adding food coloring to the tank. If the toilet is leaking, color will appear in the bowl within 30 minutes. Check the toilet for worn-out, corroded or bent parts. Most replacement parts are inexpensive, readily available and easily installed. (Flush as soon as the test is done, since food coloring may stain the tank.)

• Water your lawn between the hours of 6 p.m. and 9 a.m.
  The sun will not evaporate the water as quickly as in the afternoon.
  
• Use a sprinkler timer. If you don’t have one, use the kitchen timer.
  
• Let water sink in slowly. Water applied too quickly runs off.