Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Home Energy Conservation and Tips

Saving energy means more dollars in your pocket, but it is also a powerful way to save our valuable resources. Energy conservation is the most important green initiative that we should take to heart and practice.

We can start with small steps to lighten the "footprints" we leave behind for future generations like the simple changing of a light bulb which can make a dramatic difference in energy efficiency and cost savings (standard incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) can save 75% of lighting cost).

A surprisingly large number of electrical products—TVs to microwave ovens to air conditioners—cannot be switched off completely without being unplugged. These products draw power 24 hours a day, often without the knowledge of the consumer. We call this power consumption "standby power."

An individual product draws relatively little standby power but a typical American home has forty products constantly drawing power. Together these amount to almost 10% of residential electricity use.

Identify and reduce these energy drains by using smart strips or unplugging when not in use.


Energy Saving Tips

Turn off the lights when you leave a room.

Replace energy-hungry incandescent lights with fluorescent lighting.

Check with your utility company for energy conservation tips.

Use a programmable thermostat that automatically turns off

the air conditioner or heater when you don't need them.

Add insulation to your home.

Use a fan instead of air conditioning.

Use an EPA-approved wood burning stove or fireplace insert

Insulate your water heater or buy a tankless unit.

Install low-flow showerheads.