Efficiency Tips

These simple, everyday energy and water efficiency tips can help you keep utility bill costs low while benefitting the environment. 

Energy

• Program your thermostat and only run the heat and AC when you’re home.
• Use your curtains. Close window coverings during the day to keep heat out on hot days. Open window coverings during the day in cold weather to let in warmth and natural light and close them at night to keep the cold out. Consider thermal curtains or blinds for added insulation. 
• Use fans to move air around you and turn off ceiling fans when you leave the room.`
• Take advantage of natural light when possible and turn off lights in rooms when not in use. 
• Avoid placing lamps or tv sets near a room air-conditioning thermostat, as the heat from the appliance may cause the air conditioner to run longer or cooler than needed. 
• Clean air vents regularly to maximize air flow and do not block air vents with furniture or other large objects. 
• When bathing, use a bathroom fan to remove heat and humidity from the room. Ensure bathroom and kitchen fans are vented to the outside. 
• Do not run major appliances during the heat of the day and at "peak" energy demand time of 4 PM to 9 PM.

Water

• Adjust your irrigation timer to stop watering when rain is in the forecast. 
• Get a free survey of your irrigation system from Valley Water with recommendations for repairs, replacements, and upgrades. 
• Sign up for leak alerts with WaterSmart. Get notified when a potential leak is detected and get step-by-step advice on how to check for leaks in your home. 
• Run the dishwasher and washing machine only when they’re full. 
• Scrape food scraps into the compost bin instead of rinsing dishes before loading them into the dishwasher. 
• Collect shower water in a bucket as it heats up. Use it to water your plants or wash your dishes.  
• Water only desired plants. Dig up patches of weeds from turf areas then add sod or overseed to repair the bare areas. 

Maximize your water and energy savings with minimal cost and apply for rebates. 

Energy

• Switch to a heat pump water heater. The City is offering expert help to get you permits, installers, and rebates worth thousands of dollars to install a better water heater. Find details here or call us.
  • Pro tip: Heat pump water heaters are the second most impactful way to reduce your carbon footprint after switching from an internal combustion engine vehicle to active modes of transportation such as walking, biking, or using public transit, or by driving an electric vehicle. 

Water

• Replace your lawn with trees and native drought tolerant plants. Upgrade to a water-wise landscape and get a rebate of up to $5,000.  
• Install drip irrigation for shrubs, trees, and gardens and get a rebate of $0.25 per square foot. 
• Upgrade to a smart controller for your watering schedule and get a rebate of up to $300. 
• Check for toilet leaks. Get free dye tablets and flappers from Valley Water.
• Install efficient showerheads and aerators. Get free water-saving equipment from Valley Water.  

Find more ways to save energy, water and money!

While these efficiency upgrades require some upfront investment, you will reap the savings over time and keep utility bill costs low. 

Energy

• Keep your fireplace damper closed when there is no fire. Consider a chimney pillow/balloon if you never use your fireplace. 
• Upgrade your attic insulation. 
• Upgrade all lighting to LEDs, including holiday lights. 
• Weather-strip and caulk the seals around doors and windows. 
• Get your heating system professionally serviced every few years. 
• Replace your furnace filter.

Water 

• Fix leaks as soon as possible. 
• Replace your clothes washer with a high efficiency model. 
• Upgrade to high efficiency toilets.