Nevada Power shares energy-saving tips

Nevada Energy Star Partners, a coalition of local developers, energy inspection and certification companies, mortgage lenders, and other nonbuilder partners, has been created to inform home buyers of the benefits of owning an Energy Star labeled home, as well as to inform consumers on how to conserve energy and save money.

Energy Star homes are 30 percent more energy efficient than a standard home.

"If a typical Las Vegas home uses about 6,000 kilowatt-hours, or about $600 a year for cooling, an Energy Star labeled home would use only about 4,000 kilowatt-hours, or about $400 a year for cooling, a savings of $200," said Bob Balzar, director of Nevada Power Co.'s Take Control department.

Balzar offers tips for homeowners to reduce their summertime energy costs.

"Set the programmable thermostat for 78-80 degrees while at home, and increase the setting to 84-86 degrees when asleep or away from home. This will help considerably with cooling costs," he said. "If you do not have a programmable thermostat, the investment of $50-$80 for one will pay for itself in just one summer."

Balzar also recommended that homeowners install and use ceiling fans; make sure the area around the air-conditioning condenser is clear of debris; change air-conditioning filters monthly; use shades, blinds or curtains to block out heat, especially on the south and west sides of the home; keep the garage door closed, especially on the south or west sides of the home; and run the dishwasher, clothes washer and dryer after dark.

Nearly 20 builders are building Energy Star labeled homes in the Las Vegas area. To date, more than 4,000 Energy Star labeled homes have been built in Nevada, and more than one-third of the Top 100 builders in the nation have joined the Energy Star for Homes Program.

Common features in Energy Star homes are: tight ducts; properly installed insulation; high-performance windows that keep heat inside during the winter and out during the summer; tight construction to reduce drafts, moisture, dust, pests and pollen; and energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment.

Energy Star is a voluntary program managed by the Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Energy.

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