Use a Little Less...Energy

by Marily | More from this Blogger

Some of us are in the habit of wasting not only earth's resources, but also our own hard-earned money. If that includes you, then it's time to start questioning how much you use everyday things. Even those that are generally cautious about not wasting resources can probably find ways to improve. There are a lot of ways that all of us can eliminate waste. Here's the first step to using less:

USE LESS ENERGY.

There are a number of things you can do to make your home more energy efficient. Some of the small and simple ways to save energy include:

1. Save money on hot water by turning your water heater down to somewhere between 120 and 130 degrees. Also, if you buy low-flow shower heads you will end up using less hot water. The water comes out in a more forceful stream, so not as much is needed.

2. Use compact fluorescent light bulbs wherever you can. They are four times as energy efficient than normal incandescent light bulbs. Though they are more expensive up-front, they will more than pay for themselves in energy costs.

3. Remember when you buy appliances to look for the Energy Star label. This label means that the appliance has met strict criteria set by the EPA and US Department of Energy. Understand that the cost of an appliance is not just the amount that you pay initially; it is also the amount that you will be paying on it every month in energy costs.

4. Reduce the amount of heat that escapes from your house. During winter months, an average family spends about half of their energy costs on heating their home. Big ways to save money in this area include stopping leaks in your walls and improving your wall and attic insulation.

5. Set the thermostat a couple of degrees warmer than you're use to in the summer and a couple of degrees cooler in the winter. Chances are--you'll be able to adjust.

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