The Effects of Videotape Modeling and Daily Feedback on Residential Electricity Conservation, Home Temperature and Humidity, Perceived Comfort, and Clothing Worn: Winter and Summer

Two studies were conducted in all-electric residences in the winter ( n = 83) and summer ( n = 54) to ascertain how energy conservation strategies focusing on the thermostat change and other low-cost/no-cost approaches would affect overall electricity use, electricity use for heating and cooling, home thermal environment, perceived comfort of participants, and choice of clothing. The authors assessed the effectiveness of videotaped modeling programs that demonstrated these conservation strategies when they were used alone or with daily feedback on electricity use. Results are discussed in terms of discrepancies with laboratory studies, optimal combinations of media and personal contact, and energy policies that may be mislabeled as sacrificial and that may underestimate the effectiveness of conservation strategies. (40 ref)