Tips for saving energy Published Oct. 24, 2007 By 52nd Civil Engineer Squadron SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- Conserve not only money, but also natural resources with the following Green Tips: General awareness - Create an awareness of the need for energy conservation with children. - Be aware of the need for energy conservation at home, the workplace, hotels, etc. Heaters and radiators: - Avoid blocking radiators with curtains, furniture or other items to ensure air circulates. - Ventilate rooms on a regular basis, about twice a day, opening windows completely for 15 minutes instead of leaving windows tiled the whole day. When windows are open turn heat off. - Reducing temperature by 1 degree Celsius saves approximately six percent of heating energy. Air conditioning: - Avoiding using an air conditioner when it would be comfortable to open the window and use portable fans instead. Only use air conditioners when home and the windows are closed. - During the day, keep the drapes or blinds closed on windows that face east, south and west. This will help reduce solar heat gain into your house. Freezer and refrigerators: - Do not leave refrigerator or freezer doors unnecessarily open. - Defrost refrigerators and freezers regularly to keep them running efficiently. Make sure the freezer is completely dry after defrosting to avoid moisture which will start a new frost build-up. - Wait until food has cooled to room temperature before placing it in the refrigerator. - Place freezers in a cool, well-ventilated room and protect it from exposure to the sun and heat. Do not put a refrigerator next to a stove or other heat source. Refrigerators and freezers produce heat and warm up the space when they are working. - In the case of malfunction or power outage, keep the freezer door closed; goods in a well stocked freezer will keep for approximately 10 hours. - Keep the evaporator on the back of the refrigerator clean and the ventilation slits clear.