Energy conservation is a hot topic, and we all know there are dozens of reasons to do so. Even if your only motivation for doing so is to save money. So, rather than go into details about why to save, we will focus on the how. Use the options below that work best for you. Many, you may already be implementing. Hopefully there are at least a few options that will help you even more.
- This may seem like a no-brainer but make sure all lights and appliances are turned off when not in use. It is really easy to walk off and leave things on or running, but if you are going to be out of the room more than a few minutes it is best to turn things off. This can play a major role in energy conservation.
- Replace any standard light bulbs with low wattage LEDs or CFLs. These can make a huge difference in then long run though the upfront cost can be a bit tough to manage.
- Change your air filter regularly. A dirty air filter is slowing air through your system forcing it to work a lot harder to do the same amount of work eating up extra energy.
- Consider installing a programmable thermostat for energy conservation. It can be set to automatically adjust during times you are not home, this can save most families over a hundred dollars a year!
- Seal all ductwork and water pipes, as well as insulate them. This can add up to a ton of energy saved every year. Ductwork and plumbing pipes are rarely as efficient as possible.
- Make sure your attic, basement, and walls are well insulated.This solution is typically relatively cheap and very effective at reducing energy bills.
- Shut your windows, replace storm windows, add heavy drapes, and weatherproofing. Windows can prove to be a major energy leak. It may even be worthwhile to install new windows with double or triple glazing.
- Double check the temperature on your water heater. Consider lowering it a bit, especially during the warmer months. Also, it is always a good idea to insulate your water heater.
- Defrost your frozen food in your refrigerator because then the lost cold will be keeping your refrigerator colder. Also, consider raising the temperatures your refrigerator and freezer are set at to conserve energy.
- During the winter, keep the indoor temperature a bit cooler than you like and wear more layers. During summer, keep it a bit higher or better yet open windows!
- Keep your freezer and refrigerator at least two/thirds full and resist the urge to open them unnecessarily.
- Install motion detecting lights, even better if they are solar powered!
- Hang clothes up to dry when possible! If you do use a dryer, clean the lint trap after every use.
- Only boil the water you need, don’t fill a kettle for one tea cup. And consider reheating food in the microwave over the oven to conserve energy.
- Use power strips and then turn things off completely with the flip of a switch. Many electronics drain power even when not actively on, circumvent this by turning everything off entirely through a power point or outlet strip.
- Consider using a ceiling fan instead of or in conjunction with your air conditioner to keep the temperature comfortable and air flowing.
- Consider wise landscaping to help your home gain more from passive solar heating and cooling.
All of these tips are just the start of ways to conserve energy. You can do a lot to change your energy consumption in the world. Continue to check with us frequently for even more helpful tips and ideas to save money and conserve energy!
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