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Factors that affect energy consumption. <br /> You can take control of your electricity expenses with efficient habits and smart decisions, but there are some <br /> factors beyond your control that can dramatically affect your energy consumption. <br /> SEASON <br /> Electric bills will typically jump in the summer due to air conditioner use. You may see similar increases in the winter if you heat <br /> with electricity. Electric bills tend to be lower in the spring and fall when temperatures are milder. <br /> `PHANTOM'LOAD <br /> When you turn something off, that doesn't necessarily mean that it has stopped using electricity. Many electronics have a <br /> standby mode that draws an electric current even while turned off. Known as "phantom" loads, they can add up quickly. Unplug <br /> all electronics that display a clock or light while turned off, or use a smart power strip to limit phantom loads. <br /> VACATION <br /> Taking a vacation? This is a perfect time to benchmark your home for standard electric use. Many people believe that when they <br /> leave for vacation, their electric meter stops until they return. If you've ever wondered how an empty house can use so much <br /> energy, ask yourself the following questions: <br /> Was the water heater turned down or off during your vacation?- Remember, if the water heater is left on during vacation, it will <br /> continue to operate and maintain the tank temperature even if you're not using any hot water. <br /> Did you adjust your thermostat;up in the summer and down in the winter? <br /> Did other appliances and electronic devices run while you were on vacation?- Clocks, cell phone chargers, DUD players, heating <br /> and air conditioning equipment, computers, gaming systems and TV sets may draw some "phantom" electricity. Unplug them <br /> while you're away for an extended period of time. <br /> VINTAGE <br /> Older appliances and electronic devices often use more electricity than newer ones. While it can be difficult to invest in new <br /> appliances or electronic devices when you've got reliable older models, the cost savings from reduced energy use can, in some <br /> cases, recoup a significant portion of the cost of an upgrade. Contact Elk River Municipal Utilities for available rebate options for <br /> household appliance replacement. <br /> GET INSIDE THE OUTLET <br /> The table on pages 6 and 7 will give you an estimate of your electricity use, and your meter is great for accurately measuring <br /> consumption for your entire home, but there are tools that can help identify those items that are particularly costly to operate. <br /> A portable electric monitor fits between an appliance and the outlet to measure electricity use and cost. By isolating an <br /> individual device,you can watch how your habits affect your power bill. Portable electric monitors can be purchased, or checked <br /> out for use from Elk River Municipal Utilities or the Elk River Public Library. <br /> 191 <br /> 9 <br />