Working at home can increase your energy expenses. But it’s easy to set up an energy-efficient home office with energy saving discounts, rebates and advice from Tucson Electric Power.
“When you work from home, energy efficiency can go a long way,” said Armando Ruiz, Senior Tech Specialist in TEP’s Residential Energy Efficiency department.
Consider plugging your home office equipment into a smart power strip, which connects to multiple devices at once and supplies power with the flip of a switch. Turning the strip off when you’re not working can help you cut down on “phantom energy” use, which occurs when you’re not using a device but it is still plugged in.
Installing efficient lighting can help you save energy and money. Through TEP’s ENERGY STAR Lighting Program, you can purchase discounted Light Emitting Diodes, or LEDs, at several local retailers. Each long-lasting LED bulb can reduce your energy costs by an average of $80 over the course of its lifetime.
Keep your home office comfortable year-round by using an energy efficient air conditioning system and heat pump. Customers can save up to $1,000 on qualifying units installed by contractors participating in TEP’s Efficient Home Program.
Remember to replace your system’s air filter monthly, and be sure the ducts are properly sealed. If your air conditioner is in need of a tune-up, discounts are available through the Efficient Home Program.
Planting shade trees on the south and west sides of your home can help you keep your cooling costs down. TEP’s Trees for You program offers shade trees for just $5 each. Order your trees conveniently through My Account on tep.com.
Working at home helps you generate even greater savings from common energy efficient practices.
“Always turn off the lights and fans when leaving rooms. These small everyday actions can make a bigger difference if you spend a lot of time at home,” Ruiz said.
It’s also important – especially in the desert – to remember the power of the sun. While working at home in the winter, open your window blinds and allow the sun to provide heat. In the summer, cover your windows during the day to keep your home cooler.
Learn more at http://www.tep.com/efficiency.
