Answers matching: ENERGY STAR

Appliances
Are there ENERGY STAR qualified electric ovens? - Denise, Topeka KS

No, ovens cannot earn the ENERGY STAR.

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Appliances
Which of my two refrigerators is more energy efficient? - Lori , Athelstane, WI

Use the ENERGY STAR Savings Calculator to find out!

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Lighting
How do I get a rebate on LED decorative light strings? - Wayne, Park Falls, WI

Some retailers offer an instant reward.

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Appliances
Are there rebates for energy efficient dehumidifiers? - Margaret , Madison, WI

Visit our website for reward info.

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Appliances
On average, how much money is saved by unplugging a second refrigerator? - Gary , Madison, WI

You could save about $100 each year.

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Lighting
I keep hearing about LED holiday lights. What are they and why are they good to use? - Michael, Wauwatosa, WI

LED holiday lights really cool!

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Home Improvement
How much does a home energy evaluation cost? - Joan, Madison, WI

The cost varies. Read on for more.

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Appliances
What's the most energy efficient style of refrigerator? - Nate, Mt. Horeb, WI

Typically, a fridge with a top-mounted freezer uses less energy.

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Lighting
What are the benefits of using CFLs? - Audrey, Eau Claire, WI

CFLs save energy and money and last longer!

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Heating and Cooling
Do you offer a rebate for a programmable thermostat? - Lisa, Eau Claire, WI

There is no reward for thermostats right now.

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Appliances
Aren't freezers supposed to be kept full, to be more energy efficient? - Shirley , Cassville, WI

Yes, that’s right. Full freezers use less energy.

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Home Improvement
How can I make the ceilings in our home with vaulted ceilings and 8" joists more energy efficient? - Kevin, Waunakee, WI

One effective retrofit would be to install rigid foam board.

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Home Improvement
Are there incentives for installing insulation in a home? - Faye , Tomahahawk, WI

Federal tax credits are available, read on for more information.

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Lighting
Why did my CFL have such a high reading on my watt meter? - Corina, Whitewater, WI

There are a few possible explanations.

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Home Improvement
We have new windows, should water and dirt be coming inside? - Becky, Carson City, NV

Water and dirt can be associated with air leakage.

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Home Improvement
Is there a Cash-Back Reward for energy-efficient windows? - Mary, Oregon, WI

There may be tax credits available.

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Lighting
Can I use CFLs in the bathroom? - Scott, New Berlin, WI

Yes, as long as your bathroom isn't too humid.

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Appliances
We have a freezer more than 20 years old. Should we replace it with a new freezer? - M., Cudahy, WI

It's always good to replace old appliances!

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Appliances
How do you get a reward if an appliance is not on the list? - Holly , Beloit, WI

Your washer is an ENERGY STAR®.

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Lighting
Is there an energy rebate on purchasing a ceiling fan? - Violet , Saukville, WI

If it’s ENERGY STAR qualified, yes!

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Lighting
What's the correct wattage of CFL to use for my light fixture? - Tom, Altoona, WI

Use any wattage that doesn't exceed the recommended fixture wattage.

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Lighting
Which uses more energy? Turning the light on & off when you leave the room or leaving it on? - Kevin, Sheboygan, WI

This depends on the amount of time that the bulb is on.

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Appliances
How do I make the right choice when purchasing an energy efficient dishwasher? - Norma, Milwaukee, WI

Try energystar.gov.

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Lighting
I had a CFL 'pop' & then start to smoke. I immediately turned off the light. Could it have started a fire? - Lyn, Milwaukee, WI

ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs are designed to be safe.

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Appliances
Would the cost savings from buying meat in bulk be offset by operating an additional freezer? - Dawn, Oregon, WI

This depends on the age of your freezer

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Lighting
How much can I save by changing out my lighting? - Troy, Milwaukee, WI

Both businesses and homeowners can save with efficient lighting!

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Lighting
Can CFLs be used horizontally? I heard they could only be used vertically. - Tim, Menomonee Falls, WI

CFLs can be used horizontally or vertically, but it's a good idea to read the packaging.

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Lighting
Do the low-cost CFLs use cheap components which can lessen the energy savings? - Don, Madison, WI

The savings offered by CFLs are real

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Lighting
I’ve heard that the cost to recycle bulbs is expensive. - Barb, Racine, WI

In Wisconsin, it can be free!

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Home Improvement
I need someone to look at my house to tell me how to save on utilities. - Dave , Berlin,WI

Find out more about the Home Performance with ENERGY STAR Program.

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Appliances
What is the average number of watts used in standby by many home appliances? - Michael, Madison, WI

The watts used by appliances in standby varies.

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Lighting
Does temperature or humidity affect the life of a CFL? - Carlie, Milwaukee, WI

You can buy particular CFLs for use in those situations.

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Lighting
How will the 2007 Energy Bill affect consumers' lighting choices? - Jen, Whitefish Bay, WI

Regulation is helping to reduce energy use.

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Lighting
Is anything being done to reduce the amount of mercury in CFLs? - Marge, Fox Point, WI

Yes, the government recently addressed this issue.

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Appliances
How can I dry my clothes in an energy efficient way? - Sheree, Appleton, WI

Clothes dryers are one of the few appliances that are not ENERGY STAR qualified.

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Lighting
Are CFLs dangerous? - Michael, Cottage Grove, WI

CFLs are not dangerous

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Federal Tax Credits
Does the cost of an energy audit qualify for a federal tax credit? - Norm , Slinger, WI

Learn the details of the federal tax credits at these Web sites.

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Lighting
What rebates are available for replacing light fixtures in my garage? - Don , Random Lake, Wi

Visit our Lighting Incentives page to learn more.

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Heating and Cooling
Can a programmable thermostat really save energy? - Robin, Delafield, WI

Yes!

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Lighting
Can CFLs be used outside during WI winters as long as they are protected from snow and rain? - Mary, Oshkosh, WI

Make sure you choose a CFL designed for outdoor use.

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Home Improvement
What incentives are available for residential energy upgrades? - Sharon, Peshtigo, WI

Cash-Back Rewards and federal tax credits are available.

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Heating and Cooling
Where can I get the best information and advice on replacing my HVAC units? - Gary , Colgate, WI

Focus on Energy has a number of resources. Read on for more.

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Businesses
I am looking for incentives to upgrade gearboxes? - John , Geneva, IL

It’s a little complicated. Read on for the details.

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Lighting
Does the use of these dimmers actually save energy? - Koby, Cross Plains, WI

Lowering the wattage saves energy, but ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs save the most!

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Appliances
How can I tell if something is ENERGY STAR® qualified? - Tonya, Milwaukee, WI

Look for the ENERGY STAR label!

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Lighting
Is a halogen or LED outdoor motion-sensor light more energy efficient? - D., Kenosha, WI

LEDs are more energy-efficient.

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Electronics
How can I determine how much energy we'd save by turning off computer monitors and PC's? - Jennifer, De Pere, WI

Watt meters help you measure the amount of electricity being used.

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Lighting
Are there 3-way CFLs? - Laura, La Crosse, WI

There are CFLs specifically designed for use in 3-way fixtures.

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Appliances
Why shouldn't I keep my old refrigerator for extra storage? - Judy, Oak Creek, WI

It is not a good idea to keep an old refrigerator.

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Appliances
What is a standard sized dishwasher? - Tracey, South Milwaukee, WI

Dishwashers come in a variety of sizes.

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Electronics
Does my cell phone battery charger use power if when plugged in, but not in use? - Jonah, Bayfield, WI

It sure does! Read on to learn more.

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Appliances
Why should I choose an ENERGY STAR qualified room air conditioner? - Tony , Kenosha, WI

Because it will save you money and energy.

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Focus on Energy
Does Focus on Energy have a power calculator for consumers to use? - Karla, Arcadia, WI

You can check out a watt meter at a library near you.

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Lighting
Has CFL technology evolved? - Melissa, Waterford, WI

CFL technology gets better and better.

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Appliances
Does Focus on Energy offer incentives for recycling old appliances? - David , Chilton, WI

You will need to investigate. Let us help!

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Water Heaters
Will I save energy, water and money if I install a hot water circulating pump? - Debra , Berlin, WI

Yes, these can help you save.

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Appliances
Why aren't ovens ENERGY STAR® qualified? - Jeannie, Mayville, WI

Ovens are not energy efficient appliances.

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Appliances
Would I save more energy by replacing my old dishwasher or doing my dishes by hand? - Sharon, Muskego, WI

Read on to see why a dishwasher will save more energy.

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Lighting
My CFL is buzzing and humming? Is this normal? - Lynn, Colgate, WI

It is not normal for CFLs to hum.

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Appliances
Do you have advice for buying an energy efficient washer? - Kate, Fitchburg, WI

Look for the ENERGY STAR label!

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Electronics
What is a battery charging system? - Zora, Lake Mills, WI

These are the battery chargers for cordless products.

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Appliances
Does the high or low setting on an ENERGY STAR dehumidifier use less energy overall? - Lisa , Madison, WI

The manufacturer would have the most accurate answer.

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Appliances
What is a better dryer, gas or electric? - Debbie, Madison, WI

In terms of saving money, gas is the way to go.

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Lighting
Is it true CFLs should not be thrown in the trash? - Phil, Bayside, WI

It is best to recycle CFLs.

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Appliances
I just purchased an ENERGY STAR freezer, washer & dryer. Are there any rebates for these? - Judy , Viola, WI

Visit our Web site for reward info

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Home Improvement
Is it worth it to replace my windows with more energy efficient ones? - Jessica, Milwaukee, WI

It can be worth it, but it might not be necessary.

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Electronics
How are different TVs ranked for energy efficiency? - Terri , Green Bay, WI

There are a couple of Web sites you can visit.

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Electronics
How much energy is saved using laptop versus desktop? - David, Freedom, WI

A typical desktop PC consumes about 5 times as much.

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Home Improvement
What happened to the home energy audit program? - Roger, Mequon, WI

Energy evaluations are offered. Visit, focusonenergy.com.

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Lighting
Can I use my CFL in a totally enclosed fixture? - Michelle, Wauwatosa, WI

It is best to check the packaging.

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Home Improvement
How do you find out if there are rebates for replacing single pane windows from the 1950's? - Bryan, Grafton, WI

There may be tax credits available.

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Lighting
Can I turn my CFLs on and off frequently? - Allison, Mequon, WI

This is more than a simple yes or no answer.

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Electronics
Which type of flat screen TV uses the least energy? - Rustie, De Forest, WI

It’s a little complicated. Read on for the details.

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Home Improvement
My house does not hold heat. Do you have any suggestions? - Dave , Milwaukee, WI

Have a Home Performance with ENERGY STAR evaluation.

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Water Heaters
What kind of water heater should I buy? - Ken, Beloit, WI

Focus on Energy has some recommendations.

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Lighting
How do I select the best CFL? - Robby, Cedarburg, WI

First, look for the ENERGY STAR label!

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Appliances
Are manual defrost refrigerators more energy efficient? - Connie, La Crosse, WI

Yes, they are!

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Appliances
Should I turn off my room air conditioner when I'm not home? - Emily, New Glarus, WI

Most often, the answer is yes, but there are other factors to consider.

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Electronics
Do flats-screen TVs, cathode-ray TVs or converters use more energy? - Ivy, Baraboo, WI

An ENERGY STAR converter on your old TV would probably be more energy efficient.

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Appliances
I have an old dehumidifier, is the cash for old appliances program is still in effect? - Sheryl , Wausau, WI

Not through Focus, but here are some suggestions on where to look.

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Lighting
Is there an efficient alternative to a 250-watt heat lamp? - Jim , Grantsburg, WI

Unfortunately not for this use.

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Appliances
Can I put a refrigerator in an un-insulated garage? - Dave, Middleton, WI

It is not a good idea.

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Businesses
Does Focus provide help to incorporate LEED or ENERGY STAR®? - Rob , La Crosse, WI

Focus can help analyze various energy efficiency and renewable technologies

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Lighting
I have heard that CFLs can overheat and smoke - should I be worried? - Christy, Fond du Lac, WI

ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs are designed to be safe.

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Renewable Energy
How do I build an energy efficient home and take advantage of solar power? - Josh, Chili, WI

Build efficient first, then go solar or solar-ready!

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Heating and Cooling
What do I need to know before I shop for a new furnace? - Aaron, West Bend, WI

There are several things to consider when buying a new furnace.

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Appliances
How do I choose the right size room air conditioner? - Kristin, Wauwatosa, WI

There are many things to consider when buying a room air conditioner.

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Lighting
What can I use to replace my incandesant dimmable light bulbs? - Mark , Rhinelander, WI

There are CFLs specifically designed for use in dimmable fixtures.

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Lighting
How can I find consistent colors in CFL lighting? - Patrick, Appleton, WI

Look for the color temperature on the packaging.

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Lighting
How much money will I save by installing ceiling fans? - Joan, Waukesha, WI

80% of the savings come from the type of lighting used.

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Appliances
Is there a great savings between an 11 year old refrigerator and a new one? - Linda , Hales Corners, WI

Today's refrigerators use much less energy than older models

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Focus on Energy
Can the non-profit I'm associated with receive free CFLs to hand out at one of our events? - Chris, Racine, WI

Work with a local retailer.

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Appliances
What about other appliances that are not qualified by ENERGY STAR®? - Larissa, Green Bay, WI

There are a few appliances that are not ENERGY STAR qualified.

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Appliances
What is ENERGY STAR®? - Scott, Racine, WI

ENERGY STAR was created to help you use less energy.

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Appliances
What is a soil-sensing dishwasher? - Brenda, Brown Deer, WI

A soil-sensing dishwasher is designed to save you money!

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Appliances
Where is the best location to put my extra freezer to reduce energy use? - Larry, La Crosse, WI

If you really need a second freezer, we have some tips for you.

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Lighting
All my lamps use three-way bulbs. Can I use energy-efficient bulbs in them? - Carol, Iola, WI

Yes, CFLs come in three-way too!

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Electronics
What is an adapter and why are they important? - Nick, Germantown, WI

These are external plugs you use to power electronics.

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Electronics
What is a Digital-to-Analog Converter Box? - Mark, Chippewa Falls, WI

These boxes convert a digital signal so you may continue to use an analog TV.

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Home Improvement
How much energy can I save by replacing my windows? - Dave, West Allis, WI

You could save quite a bit depending upon what type of windows you currently have.

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Appliances
Are there ENERGY STAR qualified dehumidifiers? - Barbara, Manitowoc, WI

Yes, here are some tips.

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Appliances
What should I look for when buying an energy saving appliance? - Dana, Madison, WI

Look for the ENERGY STAR label!

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Electronics
When a power strip is turned off, isn't it still using electricity? - Jennifer , Medford, WI

When a power strip is off, it’s really off!

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Electronics
What is phantom power? - Jordan, Brookfield, WI

It's power used by appliances and electronics when they're off.

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Appliances
Can I save energy and money by unplugging things when they're not in use? - Penny , Neenah, WI

Yes, unplugging items not in use is a great way to save!

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Water Heaters
How much money can I save by installing an energy efficient water heater? - Don, West Milwaukee, WI

Energy efficient water heaters can save up to 25% on your water heating bill.

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Lighting
My CFL burned out before the packaging stated it should. How do I get a refund or replacement? - Mark, Oconomowoc, WI

Here's what you need to do.

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Appliances
How do I know if I need a dehumidifier? - Michelle, Janesville, WI

There are several reasons why you may need a dehumidifier.

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Lighting
What if a CFL breaks? - Ryan, River Hills, WI

Here is what you should do to clean up a broken CFL.

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Appliances
How much does it cost to run a dehumidifier? - John , Sun Prairie, WI

This depends on a couple factors.

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Home Improvement
What is the program that helps make a house more energy efficient? - Suzanne, Menomonie, WI

Work with a Home Performance professional in your area!

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Lighting
I’ve only seen the “twisty” CFLs, are there other types available? - Justin, Richfield, WI

CFLs come in a wide variety of styles!

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New Construction
I'm building a house & need advice on windows; brands, reasonably priced, efficient? - Teana , Milwaukee, WI

Whatever you choose, make sure it is an ENERGY STAR!

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Appliances
Why aren't residential clothes dryers eligible for Cash-Back Rewards? - Paul, Clintonville, WI

Dryers are one of the few appliances that are not ENERGY STAR qualified.

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Water Heaters
Would an electric on-demand water heater fit my needs under a Time of Use program? - Arlene , Bruce Crossing, MI

There might be a better solution.

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Lighting
What gives CFLs their different color temperatures? - Nicholas, Wauwatosa, WI

Light color is measured on a temperature scale referred to as Kelvin.

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Heating and Cooling
Our furnace has seen better days. Where do we start? - Melanie , Trevor, WI

Things to look for in a new furnace include...

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Lighting
How do LED’s work? - Gus, Crivitz, WI

LEDs use light and energy more efficiently.

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Appliances
What is the most energy efficient way to cook? - Mary , Shorewood, WI

A microwave is a good choice.

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Lighting
Can I use CFLs in dimmable fixtures? - Ben, Milwaukee, WI

There are CFLs specifically designed for use in dimmable fixtures.

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Appliances
Do you have information on smaller (~18 cubic feet) ENERGY STAR refrigerators? - Alfred , Madison, WI

Search the qualified product lists on the ENERGY STAR Web site.

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Appliances
Is the operating cost of a propane dryer the same as natural gas or is it closer to electricity? - Martha , River Falls, WI

The cost for propane is similar to electricity.

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Appliances
Should I replace my old refrigerator if it's still operational? - Bonnie, Edgerton, WI

It is always a good idea to replace old refrigerators!

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Lighting
I’ve heard there is mercury in my CFLs. Won’t this hurt my family? - Jon, West Allis, WI

CFLs contain a small amount of mercury that is not emitted with proper use.

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Lighting
Is the max. fixture wattage for incandescents equivalent to the max. CFL watt rating? - Loren, Topsham, Maine

This is based on the max. wattage, regarless of bulb type.

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Appliances
Is there a rebate for buying a new refrigerator? - Dave , De Pere,WI

Visit our Web site for reward info

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Lighting
Do lights with dimmer switches really save energy? - Peg , Mosinee, WI

Lowering the wattage saves energy, but ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs save the most!

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Lighting
Is it better to leave fluorescent lights on or to turn them off and on? - Jennifer , Medford, WI

It is best to use CFLs in light fixtures you use the most.

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Appliances
How can my new dishwasher be energy efficient if it runs twice as long as my old one? - Nicole, Waukesha, WI

It runs longer because it's more energy efficient! No kidding!

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Appliances
We just purchased 2 refrigerators; Maytag currently has no rebates. Does Focus have anything? - Jean , Black River Falls, WI

Visit our website for reward info.

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Electronics
Do you have any refunds for purchasing ENERGY STAR® computers or laptops? - Linda & William , Fond du Lac, WI

Visit our Web site for reward info

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