Energy, Safety Tips for Back-to-School Season 

As students return to school and daytime energy use shifts, CenterPoint Energy encourages customers to take simple steps to reduce usage. 

“This time of year is a natural reset,” said Tony Gardner, CenterPoint’s Senior Vice President and Chief Customer Officer. “With new schedules and changing routines, it’s a great time to start a few energy-saving habits that can help manage costs and your pocket book.” 

Back-to-school tips 

Customers can take the following steps to make their homes more energy efficient: 

• Raise the thermostat when the house is empty. 
  A three- to four-degree increase during school and work hours can reduce cooling costs. A programmable or smart thermostat can help automate the adjustment. Eligible customers can explore options at CenterPointEnergy.com/Shop. 

• Unplug unused devices. 
  Electronics like gaming systems, chargers and printers continue to draw power even when idle. Use a smart power strip to turn them off all at once. 

• Use natural light when possible. 
  For homework or reading, open blinds and rely on daylight. Swap out bulbs for LEDs to save even more. Eligible customers can visit CenterPointEnergy.com/Shop for instant rebates. 

• Keep cool air in. 
  Seal small leaks around doors and windows with weatherstripping or caulk. Close blinds during the hottest part of the day. Eligible customers can visit CenterPointEnergy.com/Shop for instant rebates. 

• Do full laundry loads in cold water. 
  Save energy and protect fabrics by using cold water and waiting until you have a full load. 

• Use smaller appliances. 
  For quick meals or lunch prep, use a toaster oven or microwave. Limit fridge-door openings to keep cooling efficient. 

• Make it a routine. 
  Challenge your household to find one new way to save each week. 

Back-to-school safety tips 

• Keep kites, drones and metallic balloons well away from overhead power lines. Never climb trees or play near power lines or pad-mounted transformers. 
• Carry ladders, sports equipment or other tall items horizontally and check above for power lines before raising them. 
• In dorms and classrooms, use only UL-listed power strips with over-current protection, do not overload outlets and never run cords under rugs, doors or windows. 
• Remind your household or classroom about all signs of a possible gas leak, including the smell of rotten eggs, a hissing or roaring sound, or bubbling water, blowing dirt or dead vegetation.