The Low Down On Green Living
June 29th, 2009
8 Easy Ways to Save Energy and Money This Summer
Stumble it!
The heat of summer is upon us, and that means folks are cranking up the AC, making an extra batch of ice, and generally burning energy 24-7. But we need all need to continue to try to conserve as much energy as possible to save resources and slow the march of global warming. And we get to save money at the same time– nice one!
Here are the eight easy things we can all do at home to cut our energy consumption.
1. Keep your home at an eco-conscious temperature. 78 degrees is plenty cool in the house. Turn down the AC and get a programmable thermostat so you’re only cooling the house when you really need to.
2. Work with the sun to keep your house cool. Close all shutters and blinds during the day to keep the sun out– then open windows at night to cool the house and feel the breeze (if you have any!).
3. Let the air dry your dishes and clothes. The dryer and dish washer use a lot of energy– and the air does the drying job just as well. Plus your clothes will last longer. See some great clothes-drying racks here.
4. Take shorter showers and do not take baths. Hot water heating is one of the major uses of energy in any home. Showers are the way to go– and keep ’em short. Baths use much more water and heat than do baths (unless you’re taking 30 minute showers!). You can also look into solar hot water.
5. Ditch the beer fridge. It’s amazing how many homes have two refrigerators. Please do not use more than one fridge. And if you have an old model, get a newer Energy Star model.
6. Use ceiling fans rather than AC. They are much more energy-efficient and you can get very reasonably priced Energy Star models.
7. Get solar screens for your windows. These screens cut 75% of the heat coming through your windows, but don’t impact your visibility. They are really great energy savers. See solar screens here.
8. Spend one night each week in candlelight. It’s romantic, fun and inspires new conversation. If you’ve got kids, how about turning off the TV one night and playing a board game by candlelight? Clue would be particularly spooky!
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Comments
Brian Gorski
June 30th, 2009 at 1:11 pm
I’d hate to be a bummer here, but in the tropical climate NJ gets to in the summer, 78 is rediculously hot, even with the fans going full speed, for me 75 is still tough to take, and most people around me set their air to 68.
The clothes racks are great for those who have the room and time (little tough for me with four kids.) We do however use the energy save mode on our dishwasher, so that it air dry’s our dishes.
What adult, aside from possible a lady giving herself an occasional bubble bath as an at home “spa” treatment has the freakin’ time for anything but a quick shower? I’m lucky if I even get that every couple of days.
As for the solar screens, I’d love to get pull down ones for my sliders in my kitchen, does anyone know where I can buy them in 8′ lengths, even with my 6 windows, 100 feet is a rediculous amount to purchase unless you are re-retailing them some how.
Jake | Revive Your Life
July 7th, 2009 at 8:35 pm
Jessica,
I enjoyed your tips. I can understand Brian’s beef with some of your suggestions. I feel as though if you apply at least some of her recommendations, you as a human can make a difference.
Cheers!
Jake
n.spencer
July 8th, 2009 at 2:44 am
keeping your windows open at night???in a city with high crime???NOT A WISE OR PRUDENT SUGGESTION!!!
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