CONSERVATION TIPS

Water Conservation

Use the appropriate water level and load size on the washing machine when doing laundry. Consider purchasing a front-load washing machine.

Turn off the water while brushing your teeth or shaving to keep excess water from going down the drain.

Use leftover water for houseplants, instead of pouring out a half-empty glass of drinking water.

Make sure the dishwasher is fully loaded to maximize the dishes cleaned in a cycle.

Capture shower/bath water while waiting for water to change temperatures.  This excess water can be used for watering plants.

Don't wait for the water to get hot before filling the tub for a bath.  Put in the plug and adjust the water temperature as the tub fills.

Do not use the toilet as a garbage can.  Only flush the toilet when disposing of sanitary waste.

Turn off the water while shaving.  Fill the bottom of the sink with a few inches of water to rinse your razor.

When washing dishes by hand, use as little water as possible. Use only the required amount of dish soap and put the dishes in a rack to rinse them all together and reduce rinse water. Be sure to use short bursts instead of letting the water run when rinsing.   When you do use the dishwasher, use appropriate water and energy efficient settings.

Keep a container of drinking water in the refrigerator.  With cold drinking water on hand, you'll waste less than you would while waiting for the faucet to change temperature for each glass of water.

Do not defrost frozen food with running water.  Use the microwave or defrost in the refrigerator.

When cooking, use only the amount of water required; this reduces the amount of water wasted when straining.

Energy Conservation

Set your home’s thermostat a few degrees lower.  For each one-degree change, your family can save up to 5 percent on your home’s heating and cooling costs!

Turn off lights and all electronics (like computers, televisions, stereos, and video-games) when you leave a room.

Use the microwave instead of the oven for cooking your meals.

Use machines like washers, dryers, and dishwashers after 8 p.m.

Open your blinds or curtains on sunny winter days to let the sun shine into your home.

Daylight Savings

While Daylight savings typically signifies the beginning of “Summer” time, this extension of daylight as well as the reduction of daylight when we revert back to standard time in November, can also be used as a reminders to change the batteries in your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.  When you change the clock, change the batteries.

INSURANCE MATTERS

Condominium Insurance

Condominium owners are presented with a unique situation when it comes to insuring their home.  Part of the coverage is provided from a policy purchased by the Condominium Association called a Master Policy.  The Condominium Association’s By-laws and Master Deed spell out specific guidelines that must be followed when obtaining this coverage.

Condominium Owners should also purchase an individual Unit-Owners Policy (FORM HO-6).  These policies are similar to traditional homeowner policies but have been tailored to meet the needs of a condominium unit owner.  The policy works in conjunction with the Master Policy to provide a full package of coverage.

The principle element of the Unit Owners policy is coverage for the owner’s Personal Property (Coverage C).  The limit that you choose should accurately reflect the total value of all of your personal belongings.

Condominium policies also provide coverage for Personal Liability and Medical Payments.  In addition, options such as special coverage for valuable articles like jewelry, art or furs can easily be included.

Renters/Tenant Insurance

Tenants should obtain insurance coverage through the purchase of a special policy designed to protect personal belongings.  This policy provides coverage up to a specified amount for your personal property (clothing, furniture, household appliances etc.) for many perils including fire, smoke and theft.

As a tenant, you should make sure that you have enough insurance to cover all losses to your property.  To help determine your insurance needs, it is recommended that you take a household inventory.  This will not only help you in arriving at an appropriate amount to insure, but will also assist you in making a claim in the event of a loss.

Replacement Cost

Since the basic policy only covers actual cash value (the cost to replace an item minus depreciation due to age and use), it is recommended to include Replacement Cost Coverage for Contents which insures your belongings for the current cost to replace them.

Personal Liability Insurance

Personal Liability insurance provides medical coverage for claims made against you by someone either unintentionally injured on your premises or accidentally hurt by a member of your family.  If the person is injured or his property is damaged because of negligence by you or a family member, personal liability insurance will also pay for your legal defense and any resulting court judgment against you (up to the limit stated on your policy).