Other Conservation Tips

• Turn off your computer, office accessories, TV, stereo, and other appliances when not using them. It is a myth that some equipment can be damaged by by not leaving it on.

• Eliminate "phantom loads". Clocks, cordless phones, instant-on TVs and stereos, and other items consume power constantly, even when turned off! Unplug them or use a switched outlet strip or power cord switch.The entire output from one coal-fired power plant in the U.S. goes to providing power for phantom loads.

• Use an appliance power meter to test your appliances and phantom loads. Know how much energy you are using so you can make informed decisions when comparing efficiencies and reducing your energy use

• Use mass transit whenever you can. Island County makes this simple and convenient for Whidbey Island residents with free buses running Monday through Saturday. Check out their website at www.islandtransit.org

• Combine trips that require a car and take the vehicle that gets the best mileage. Keep your tires properly inflated. Make high mileage a priority in your next car purchase.

• Shop your local farmers' markets or participate in a CSA program. The average US meal travels 1500 miles to get to your table. Local Harvest has a marvelous website that makes it easy to find sources close to your home.

• Purchase renewable energy from your local utility. Check your utility company's website for information on its particular program.