Merriam residents can get a free energy-saving kit!
Making your home more energy-efficient is a great way to save money, make your home more comfortable, and protect the environment.
Kits are available for pick up while supplies last at City Hall or the Merriam Community Center during business hours. There are 500 kits available; one kit per household.
What’s in the kit?
Outlet and light switch insulators. Switches and outlets are overlooked because they’re not the largest source of air leaks. The better insulated a home, the less energy and heat loss experienced, and the less money that will be spent on heating and cooling bills. Insulating outlets is a simple task that can be completed in a few steps. Install these foam gaskets behind electric outlet plate covers and light switch covers to reduce drafts. If you have double or triple switch plates or outlets, use multiple overlapped gaskets and trim them to fit the outlet.
Window insulating kit. The kit helps eliminate drafts, energy loss, and frost build up, and it increases the insulating R-Value of a window up to 90%.
Refrigerator/freezer thermometer. This thermometer accurately displays the operating temperature of your fridge or freezer. If your refrigerator is too cold, it can waste electricity and money, and settings too warm can spoil food and subject you to food borne illnesses. By operating your refrigerator or freezer at recommended settings, you can save energy and improve efficiency by up to 8%.
LED light bulb. LED lights are up to 80% more efficient than incandescent or halogen bulbs and last many years longer. If you’re a renter, making the switch will save you money - just remember to save the original light bulb and swap them back when you move.
LED nightlight. The nightlight provides energy-efficient light with an integrated photocell that automatically turns the light on at dusk and off at dawn.
Reusable shopping bag. Plastic shopping bags are made of oil and can take between 15 and 1,000 years to break down. You can reduce the amount of plastic bags used by bringing your own reusable shopping bag. Plus, they're much more durable and can carry more items!