10 Ways to Reduce Your Energy Use
Save power, save money - and the environment
1) Insulate and Ventilate - Properly done, insulation can reduce home heating needs to almost 1/10 of an average residence. Savings are reaped in the summer as well. Use of air conditioners can be avoided or minimized in most regions. Weather stripping and caulking control air leaks, while air exchange keeps your indoor air fresh.
2) High-efficiency appliances - Energy Star appliances consume between two and 10 times less electricity. Initial costs can be up to 15 percent more, but it will come back in energy savings. Most are higher-quality products producing less noise and lasting longer.
3) Fluorescent lighting - Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs (CFL). Although initially costing more, CFLs use four times less energy and last an average of eight times longer (about 8,000 hours). Fluorescent tubes last up to 20,000 hours and add further efficiency. Both can be used in dimmable fixtures for a longer lifespan and more comfortable house.
4) Reduce phantom power - When not in use, appliances such as televisions, computers and microwaves are still consuming power. Wasted energy can total almost 25 percent of a home’s electricity bill. Choose appliances with low standby energy consumption. A good range is 0.5 to 1 watt/hour or 4 to 8 kWh/year. A power bar can cut your losses if you switch it off when you’re done on the computer. You can purchase individual switches to cut power when appliances aren’t in use.
5) Reduce home temperature - Lower temperature by one or two degrees, and even more at night and while you’re away to ensure no heat is wasted. Install a programmable thermostat to control the temperature for you.
6) Use water efficiently - A low-flow shower head can cut water consumption in half, which reflects greatly on hot water usage. Insulate electric water heaters and pipes, but not gas water heaters (start with the pipes at six inches away).
7) Change furnace filters - A clean filter will allow the furnace to operate more efficiently. Change it once a month when it’s in use.
8) Avoid batteries - If using them is a must, choose less harmful rechargeable batteries. Then charge them with power from the sun.
9) Buy locally - The further a product has to travel before it gets to you, the more energy it has consumed along the way.
10) Walk, bike, take the bus - Anything that reduces the amount you drive lowers the amount of gas you use.
