Texans Can Turn Tax Savings to Energy Savings
Oncor encourages Texas consumers to save a few dollars now and conserve later by taking advantage of the state's ENERGY STAR® sales tax holiday May 24-26. Here are a few simple ways to turn those tax savings into energy savings this summer:
• Pick up a programmable thermostat. By setting a thermostat up 10-15 degrees for eight hours, a homeowner can save about 5 percent to 15 percent on cooling costs—equivalent to a savings of as much as 1 percent for each degree if the setback period is eight hours. A programmable thermostat will automatically adjust the temperature at night or when no one is home.
• Buy fluorescent light bulbs. Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) that use approximately 70 percent less energy than a standard bulb and last up to 10 times longer. CFLs are cooler, preventing your air conditioning system from running too hard.
• Check out ceiling fans. Circulating air in a room can help make you more comfortable at higher thermostat settings.
"Oncor encourages consumers to take even the smallest step toward improving energy efficiency," said Mike Stockard, Oncor energy efficiency programs director. "The 2008 ENERGY STAR sales tax holiday may be that boost Texans need to begin working toward a more efficient home or business."
All products and appliances approved to qualify for the sales tax holiday should have an ENERGY STAR label.