The heat is on for Energy Action Month

  • Published
  • 35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan --  The heat is on, and just in time for the 35th Civil Engineer Squadron energy section to spread the word about Energy Action Month and how to help the base conserve energy this winter.

For fiscal year 2014, Misawa Air Base used about $40.2 million for energy, surpassing last year's total of $37.9 million. With the cold weather quickly approaching, the heat in housing was turned on Oct. 15 and the heat for industrial buildings is scheduled to turn on in a few weeks.

The following ways are examples you can conserve energy with water, steam, and electricity at home.

· Take shorter showers.
· Wash clothes on the minimum timed setting.
· Wash dishes by hand or on the fastest dishwasher setting.
· Set heat on 68 degrees Fahrenheit while at home and 55 degrees when the house is empty.
· Ensure doors and windows are closed to keep the heat indoors.
· Use power strips as a central station to disconnect power to unused appliances.
· Unplug appliances when the house is empty.
· Turn off computers, computer monitors, printers, copiers and game consoles when not in use.
· Use natural sunlight during the day to light your house.
· Turn off exterior lights during the day.

Making little changes in an everyday routine can make a huge difference for the base's energy output.