Xcel Energy Power Zone

Pepsi Center and Xcel Energy are working together to promote conservation, renewable energy efforts in Colorado and support for low-income energy assistance programs.

Here are ten ways you can save energy and money in your own home:

1. Use a programmable thermostat to save as much as 20% on heating costs and 12% on cooling when programmed to coincide with your daily routine.


2. Lower your thermostat from 72 to 68 degrees during the heating season to save 5% on heating costs.  During summer months you can save approximately $100 by raising your thermostat's temperature from 72 to 78 degrees.


3. Keep the doors inside your home open to improve air circulation and the efficiency of your heating and cooling systems.


4. Install Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFL's) where you can.


5. Turn off lights when you leave a room.


6. Wash only full loads when you can and wash clothes in the coolest water possible. Except for all-white loads, there is little benefit to washing with hot water.


7. Air-dry your dishes even in the dishwasher and only run your dishwasher when it's full.


8. Replace your furnace filter monthly to reduce heating costs monthly by 5%.


9. Insulate your water heater and hot water pipes to reduce heat loss and water heating costs.


10. Use ventilation fans only as needed. In just one hour, all of the heated air in your home can be drawn out through and exhaust fan.

Visit xcelenergy.com for additional tips for the best ways to save energy in your own home or call 800-895-4999 to request your FREE copy of the "Smart Energy Living" DVD

Visit the Power Zone!

• Environmental stewardship is a fundamental value at Xcel Energy. It is a promise to use the earth's resources wisely, reduce our environmental impact where possible, help develop and deploy cleaner energy technologies for tomorrow, and responsibly manage the technologies we use today.
  
  
• The goal of the Power Zone area is to demonstrate Xcel Energy's commitment to alterative energy sources in a fun and educational manner.
  
  
  • Learn about the Power of Wind and Sun with the Wind Power model and Solar Energy model.
    
    
  • Hydroelectric fountain
    
    
  • Interactive trivia game - Test your knowledge, calculate results and learn ways to improve conservation efforts at home.
    
    
    
    
  • Power Cycle - Do you know how much effort goes into generating enough energy to power a light bulb or small appliance? Find out here.
    
    
    
    
    
  • Also, don't forget to get your picture taken with your favorite sports team in the fun, interactive photo area! Raise funds for Colorado residents who need help with energy bills by taking a Power Shot. Pepsi Center and Xcel Energy have teamed up to assist Energy Outreach Colorado, a nonprofit organization that assists needy families in Colorado with their utility bills. Fans attending Colorado Avalanche, Denver Nuggets, Colorado Mammoth and Colorado Crush games will be able to create their own personalized poster for $10. Net proceeds benefit Energy Outreach Colorado.