In an effort to lower the nation's energy consumption, the federal government passed the 2005 Federal Energy Policy Act, which includes advancing Daylight Saving Time, beginning this year, from the first Sunday in April to the second Sunday in March to encourage energy savings. The extra hour of daylight is expected to reduce the use of lights and small appliances, which can account for up to 25 percent of a typical homeowner's power consumption. Using less energy means saving money on utility bills.
So as you "Spring Forward" by turning your clock an hour ahead this Sunday, March 11, at 2:00 a.m., Pacific Gas and Electric Company offers some simple things you can do to conserve energy and lower your bill:
- Turn off unneeded lights, computers and appliances.
- Clean or change your central heating and air conditioning filter monthly.
- Install programmable thermostats on central air conditioners and timers on lamps.
- Seal air leaks around pipes, flues and vents that pass through exterior walls, ceilings or floors.
- Install energy efficient appliances and windows.
For more information, check out the PG&E; press release.
