How-To: Save Energy and Money at Home – from A to Z

We all know that we should conserve energy, but why? There are environmental reasons as to why we need to limit the usage of energy. Fossil fuels, like coal and oil, are nonrenewable resources that pollute the air with CO2. This process has a detrimental impact on the environment as carbon emissions are a significant cause of global warming. There are some renewable energy technologies like wind turbines or solar panels. However, these are not sufficient to ensure that there will be enough energy to support our dependency. Even if the environmental impact does not concern you, conserving energy can help reduce utility bills.

Here are some simple things you can do in your home to save energy – from A to Z.

Audio/video products, such as TVs, stereos and DVD players, should not be left on stand-by.  It is better to turn them off completely. It may seem that these devices do not consume much energy when not in use, but we tend to have  multiple devices which really adds up at the end of the month.  The best solution is to switch off the power strip or unplug them.

Battery chargers for cell phones, laptops, iPods, and other devices should not be left to charge when full. Disconnecting the device is not enough as the charger plugged in is still consuming electricity, so always remember to unplug it.

Computers should probably be left on standby or hibernate. Turning them on and off throughout the day is impractical but you should turn off the monitor, copier, printer and scanner when you’re not using it. If you are in the market to replace your computer, choose a model that is ENERGY STAR compliant. You can also reduce energy consumption by turning down the brightness of your monitor.

Dishwashers, washer & dryer, refrigerators, freezers and air conditioners are major appliances that account for almost 17% of the energy consumed by the average household. Your current machines may be costing you much more than investing in a newer model that can help you save monthly for the next 10-15 years. You should keep your eye out for the yellow and black EnergyGuide label displayed on the appliance which will tell you the annual energy consumption and operating cost.

Energy star certified appliances are the most energy-efficient. Although they are usually more expensive, the savings on energy and water can be rewarding. Also, the federal government supports these products through the State Energy Efficient Appliance Rebate Program.

For those who may not be able to replace their old appliances, here are some tips on energy saving as well. Don’t keep refrigerators and freezers colder than necessary. The appropriate temperature is 38°F for refrigerator compartments and 5°F for freezers. Also, keep fridge and freezer doors closed so the cold air stays in.

Go check the tags on your clothes for washing instructions. You can save money by washing your clothes at 86°F or a lower temperature. It can come out to a reduction of 40% in terms of energy consumption. Lowering the temperature will not sacrifice cleanliness, as modern laundry detergents are just as effective at lower temperatures.

Heating and cooling consumes the most energy in an average household. Heating/cooling equipment needs to be properly maintained. Tight windows and good insulation throughout the house can also help conserve energy.

Invest in a programmable thermostat. You can set temperatures lower at night and when you are away from home.

Jackets can also keep your warm. In the winter months, dress warmly rather than turning up the thermostat.

Keep curtains and shades open during the daytime to let the sun in during the winter months. Keep them closed to block out heat in the summer time to control the temperature in your home without using the heater or air conditioner.

Lids can help you save as well. Using them while cooking will not only use less energy, but also your meal will cook faster.

Messy dishes? Load up the dishwasher but lower the temperature and run it only when it is full. Let your dishes air dry instead of using heated dryer.

No soaking, prewashing, or rinsing is needed if you scrape the leftovers off before you place the dirty dishes in the washer.

Once you have finished cooking, turn off the kitchen fan. Remember to regularly clean and replace the filter to make sure the device is efficient.

Purchase a small electric pan or toaster oven if you tend to prepare smaller meals. It is much more efficient than using a stove or full-sized oven. Microwaves also save energy as they heat up food faster.

Quit letting air escape from your windows. Check air ducts, doors, and windows for any air leaks and seal all the cracks that let the air flow in and out.

Replace your light bulbs with energy saving ones. They are slightly more expensive, but they use 70% less electricity and they last 8 to 13 times longer.

Stop leaving the lights on when they are not in use.

Timers and light sensors keep the lights on only when needed. Dimmers can also help you as they allow you to reduce the light level and the amount of energy used.

Use as much natural sunlight as possible. In general it is healthier than artificial light.

Ventilate rooms, but remember to turn off the air conditioner or heater before you open the windows.

Water heating costs can be reduced if you replace a tank heater with a tankless unit. You can also consider heat pump water heaters which are even more energy efficient. Remember that using water that is too hot is also unhealthy, so keep it a comfortable temperature. 120°F should be enough. You can also spend less time in the shower.

eXamine your hot water storage tank insulation (if you have one) to make sure heat doesn’t escape. Insulate the first 6 feet of the hot and cold water pipes connected to the water heater.

You can also consider installing a solar water heater, but only if you can find an open location that faces South for it.

Zeal and patience are both necessary if you want to be successful in saving energy in your home. In the beginning you may be forgetful in light of all the changes in your home when applying the above mentioned tips. With time it will become a habit.

Remember that saving energy not only saves money, but it also benefits our health while making a positive impact on the environment. The need to stop global warming is now felt worldwide and each of us has an important role in it. So why not give it a try?