Little things can save a lot of energy

  • Published
  • By Zach Sproul
  • 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  Like most of America, the United States Air Force is always looking for ways to conserve energy. The shift away from dependence on foreign oil and non-renewable forms of energy requires everyone do their part to reduce energy consumption.

Here are a few things that can be done to ensure lower energy consumption in the office:

· Always use compact fluorescent lights in desk lamps as opposed to incandescent lights.
· Switch off all unnecessary lights.
· Turn off lights when you leave at night.
· Use natural lighting when possible.
· When working late, use task lighting to directly illuminate work areas.
· When not in use, unplug equipment that drains energy -- cell phone chargers, fans, coffeemakers, desktop printers, radios, etc.)
· Unplug battery chargers when the batteries are fully charged or the chargers are not in use.
· If possible, turn off your office equipment and or computer monitors at the end of the work day.
· Use efficient ENERGY STAR® products.
· Close or tilt window blinds to block direct sunlight to reduce cooling needs during warm months.
· Photocopy only what you need.
· Use durable coffee mugs instead of disposable cups.
· Recycle office paper, newspapers, beverage containers, electronic equipment and batteries.
· Always use the second side of paper, either by printing on both sides or using the blank side as scrap paper.
· Buy supplies made with recycled content.
· Recycle used printer cartridges.
· Reduce, reuse and recycle in your office.

These things can also be applied to the home to help reduce your own energy bill.

For more information about how everyone can help Vance and the Air Force lower energy usage, visit http://www.energysavers.gov/your_workplace/, or contact Glenda Watkins, energy manager, 213-7315.