This barracks air conditioner is operating at an annual loss. (Courtesy photo)
Santiago Hernandez
Energy Conservation
Directorate of Public Works
U.S. Army Garrison Hawaii
WHEELER ARMY AIRFIELD, Hawaii -- The kids are out of school, to it is time to hit the beach, fire-up the grill, kick back and relax.
The summer is in full swing, and everyone should be enjoying the beautiful weather Hawaii has to offer. However, please do not forget that U.S. Army Garrison Hawaii’s energy conservation campaign is still in full swing. Plan to have summer fun, but keep in mind when temperatures rise, so do our electric and water bills. Historically, much of the increase is due to wasteful habits.
Please continue to follow and enforce USAG-HI’s low cost, no cost energy tips:
- Close all windows and doors for air conditioned spaces. Set thermostats to 74º Fahrenheit for cooled areas (USAG-HI standard).
- Turn off window A/C units in unoccupied rooms. Each unit can cost the Army up to $2,400 for year round use.
- Turn off lights and HVAC units (window A/C units included) when not in use, particularly during weeknights, weekends, deployments and holidays. Aircraft hangar lights are included.
- Unit arms room exterior lights should be on at night, however, off during the day.
- Minimize the number of refrigerators and coffee pots – consolidate usage.
- Turn off all office and shop equipment – printers, copiers, computers, battery chargers and shredders -- at the end of the day. Also, turn them off during work hours when practical.
- Consolidate rear detachments (personnel administrative areas, work areas, etc.) into as few buildings as possible. Use the least amount of living and work space when possible.
- Practice full load washing and drying. Turn off utility lights when not in use.
- Ensure surrounding grounds are watered between the hours of 5 p.m. to 9 a.m. Only water during hours of limited visibility. Sprinklers should be limited to 15 minutes of watering and directed only at green space.
- Submit work orders for broken doors or glass, non-functioning A/C controls and equipment, broken light timers/sensors and leaking water fixtures.
- When practical, consolidate trips – carpool. Walk or ride a bike when practical.
- Shutoff vehicles when not in use (GSA TMP/NTV and tactical vehicles are included).
- Additional tips can be located online at https://www.hawaiianelectric.com/save-energy-and-money/household-tips-and-resources.
Open doors waste energy of air conditioning. (Courtesy photo)
Do not tolerate energy waste and abuse. Report faulty equipment to your Building Energy Monitor (BEM) and emergency work orders to the DPW help desk, 808-656-1275. For BEM training, or to request energy audits, contact the DPW energy conservation manager at 808-656-3289 (office), or 808-864-1079 (cell). Energy theft should be reported immediately to the Military Police.
USAG-HI is not asking for anyone to compromise the mission or safety. We are simply asking for everyone to eliminate, or minimize, wasteful habits. Using less is everyone’s responsibility.
Enjoy your summer!