Save Energy this Season

Conserving energy this season will not only help reduce your carbon footprint but will save you money as well.  In today’s economy, many families are searching for ways to reduce monthly expenses and with winter heating costs increasing, now is the time to follow some simple tips to save energy.

Keep it clean. Clean air filters monthly.  Dirt and dust hinder air flow and will reduce efficiency.

Seal up the house. Cooled air can leak through cracks along window and door frames.  Weather-strip and caulk these cracks to avoid the drafts.  A properly-insulated home will improve energy efficiency.

Unplug. Gadgets around the house, like cellphone chargers and cable boxes, use energy and generate heat as long as they are attached to a power source.  That can add up to 10% or more of your electricity use each month.

Read more helpful tips to lower your electric bill at Smartmoney.com

Texas ENERGY STAR® Sales Tax Holiday 2011

Take advantage of the Texas ENERGY STAR Sales Tax Holiday during Memorial Day Weekend this year. Get a break from state and local sales taxes on the purchase of select ENERGY STAR appliances and products!

Anyone in Texas can buy these products on the 3-day weekend(May 28th – 30th) at a store in Texas or from an Internet or catalog seller engaged in business in this state. This includes homebuilders, real estate developers, dealers, service providers and contractors. Products may be purchased for existing homes, new homes and non-residential properties.

Eligible Products and Shopping Details
There is no limit on the number of qualifying items one can purchase during this sales tax holiday.
•Air conditioners priced at $6,000 or less
•Refrigerators priced at $2,000 or less
•Ceiling fans
•Incandescent and fluorescent light bulbs
•Clothes washers
•Dishwashers
•Dehumidifiers
•Programmable thermostats*
* ENERGY STAR specification of programmable thermostats was suspended on December 31, 2009; however, any existing stock of ENERGY STAR labeled programmable thermostats offered for sale by retailers is still eligible for the exemption.

ENERGY STAR is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy for products that meet strict energy efficiency guidelines.