Energy, water-saving tax-free weekend coming May 29-31
The annual sales tax holiday for Energy Star and WaterSense products is set for May 29-31, and state officials estimate the tax-free weekend will save buyers an estimated $13.4 million they otherwise would have paid in state and local sales tax. These qualifying items can be purchased tax-free for both private and business use. The sales tax holiday also applies to lawn and garden products that help conserve water outdoors. Items qualifying for the exemption include soaker or drip-irrigation hoses; moisture controls for sprinkler or irrigation systems; mulch; and plants, trees and grasses. These items can be purchased tax-free for residential use only.
myrgv.comFederal program says you should keep your home above 78 degrees
(CNN) - A federal program recommends people keep their homes between 78 and 85 degrees, and the internet is freaking out. The guidelines come from Energy Star, a government-backed program to promote energy efficiency, and they've sparked a fiery debate on social media. The program suggests different settings to automate at various times: 78 degrees when you wake up, 85 degrees during the day and 82 degrees when you're sleeping. The US Department of Energy also encourages homeowners to keep their thermostats at 78 degrees when they're home. If it's too hot, it may interfere with your body's natural temperature cycles and leave you with a restless night's sleep.
Too hot? Officials say to set your thermostat at 82 while you sleep
It's the result of trying to stay cool inside as outside temperatures routinely stay in the triple digits. According to a new report by Energy Star, you may be setting your central air conditioning too low and costing yourself money each month. The Department of Energy says that for each degree you raise your thermostat, you will save about 3% on your utility bill. So what do you set the temperature inside your home? According to the Energy Star report, if your thermostat is ever set lower than 78 degrees, you're doing it wrong.