• I've heard that waterbeds use a lot of electricity - is that true, and if so, how can I reduce the cost?
  
• Does an electric blanket use much electricity?
  
• I often need to use a dehumidifier to control excess moisture in my basement. Is this costing me much, and if so how can I reduce the cost?
  
• Does a hot tub cost much to operate in terms of energy costs, and how can I reduce the cost?
  
• How much does my swimming pool filter pump cost me to run, and how can I cut the cost?
  
• What is a "Green Plug" and how does it work? Do you recommend them?
  
• Can I save by unplugging appliances that are not in use?
  
• What should I consider when hiring a contractor to make energy improvements to my home?
  

Q. I've heard that waterbeds use a lot of electricity - is that true, and if so, how can I reduce the cost?

A. A typical waterbed heater will cost an average of about $16.00 per month. The best way to save energy and money is to keep the bed covered, keeping the heat in.

Q. Does an electric blanket use much electricity?

A. Very little (about $2.50/month), and it is much less expensive than keeping the whole house warm while you sleep.

Q. I often need to use a dehumidifier to control excess moisture in my basement. Is this costing me much, and if so how can I reduce the cost?

A. A dehumidifier running 12 hours a day will cost about $34.00 per month. Use dehumidifiers only as needed. In mild weather, try opening windows and using either natural air circulation or fans to dry up any excess humidity.

Q. Does a hot tub cost much to operate in terms of energy costs, and how can I reduce the cost?

A. The heater can use quite a bit of energy, depending on the size and whether it's electric or gas. An electric heater rated at 6 kW and used for 40 hours per month will cost about $34.00 per month. The best way to save is with an insulated cover that will help keep the heat in and reduce the amount of time the heater has to run.

Q. How much does my swimming pool filter pump cost me to run, and how can I cut the cost?

A. A one horsepower pump, used for 12 hours a day, will cost about $47.00 a month. If you are on a "day/night" rate, you can cut this by about two thirds by running the filter pump only at night. Otherwise, limit the hours of operation to only what is needed to maintain water quality.

Q. What is a "Green Plug" and how does it work? Do you recommend them?

A. A "Green Plug" is a device that regulates the voltage supply to appliances like refrigerators. By maintaining the lowest voltage that the appliance will accept, they can save some energy. The savings depend largely on the age of the appliance. Tests on refrigerators have shown that the greatest savings occur with older models, while with new refrigerators the savings are minimal or nonexistent.

Q. Can I save by unplugging appliances that are not in use?

A. If the appliance has an "on/off" switch, turning it off has the same effect as unplugging it. Extra refrigerators or freezers should be unplugged when not in use.

Q. What should I consider when hiring a contractor to make energy improvements to my home?

A. There is no foolproof method to guarantee a good job at a fair price, but there are some basic guidelines you should follow: always get a minimum of three estimates, ask for references (and check them), check with the Better Business Bureau or any consumer agencies in your area, and get everything in writing including a firm price, a start date and a completion date.