Conserving Energy

Hi Folks,

People living in industrialized countries have grown so accustomed to a plentiful supply of relatively cheap energy that we pretty much take it for granted. We seem to only pay attention to our use of energy when we find ourselves having to cut costs due to job loss, additional expenses, retirement, etc. Fortunately we are becoming more aware of the importance of conserving energy. We are learning that our resources are not unlimited and that their use is causing harm not only to our cities but to our world. So, whether you want to conserve energy to save money, help save our environment or both, the following are some areas where you can begin.

I hope you are having a nice day,
Woody

   
<> Replacing your old refrigerator with a new energy efficient model is a good first step and you will save as much as $80.00 a year. Of course you will save even more if the door seals in your old refrigerator are leaking, causing the refrigerator to run more often to keep cool.

<> One important point to remember is that you will not benefit as much from a new energy efficient refrigerator if you place it near heat radiating appliances such as your dishwasher, oven or stove. This is why interior designers and architects make it a point to have separate areas for cooling and heating appliances. If your frig is old or new you should examine its location to determine if there is a way to better insulate it from heat sources.

<> Maintaining the correct temperature of your refrigerator can save as much as 25% on energy consumption. Many people set the temperature much colder than necessary. It is also a very good idea to remind your family (and yourself) to not hold the refrigerator door open any longer than necessary

<> Allowing your dishes to air dry rather than using the dishwasher’s “heat dry” setting is an easy way to save energy and money.

<> Clothes dyers use a lot of electricity so to save money hang you clothes on a line outside in nice weather. Hanging you clothes on a line may be extra work but watch your electric bill for the reward.

<> Washing your clothes in cold water saves as much as 75% in energy use. 

<> More than 50 degrees of heat is lost whenever you open the oven during cooking. Follow the cooking instructions and preheat the oven as required. Open the oven only when needed.

<> While shades and curtains are a good way to help maintain a room’s temperature, adding e-films to the windows will save even more in heating and air-conditioning costs.

<> Double paned windows are excellent energy savers. Storm windows are also good but not as efficient as double paned windows.

<> Your furnace and or air conditioner have to work harder when you have air leaks and drafts around your house. Sealing your home against air leaks and drafts is one of the cheapest ways to conserve energy.

<> Limiting the use of ventilating fans and closing the damper in the fireplace when its not in use helps maintain desired temperature inside your home.

<> Ceiling fans are a good investment. Ceiling fans circulate the air in the room allowing you furnace and air conditioner to run less often. In many parts of the country, ceiling fans are enough to cool a home that is well insulated.

<> Trellises, overhangs, shrubs and especially trees help in cooling your home during the summer months. They also serve as good wind breaks during the winter.

<> Unplug appliances when they are not being used. Keeping appliances plugged in and on standby mode may be convenient but adds a lot to your electric bill.

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