March 22 - 28 Energy Efficiency

Would you believe that there are ways that we can use energy efficiency to get MORE comfort and MORE benefit from our energy use while using considerably less energy. How is that possible??? Americans waste as much as 75% of the energy we use through inefficiency and lack of awareness? By making small changes we CAN be better stewards of energy resources.

Here are some things you can do to help out. (As suggested in the Green Living Handbook)

1 – turn off the lights when you leave the room
2 – unplug appliances that you are not using (like the toaster and coffee maker and TV)
3 – turn off your computer when you are not using it for 2 or more hours
4 – install energy efficient light bulbs
5 – keep wearing your clothes until they are ACTUALLY dirty
6 – keep your water heater at 120 degrees F
7 – make sure your refrigerator is well sealed
8 – keep your thermostat between 65 and 68 – wear a sweater
9 – make sure you get an annual tune-up for your furnace
10 – get your air conditioner tuned up every 3 years
11 – insulate windows and doors
12 - use fans to cool your house
13 – fuel up in the evenings (or early morning) when the air is cool – this reduces gasoline vapors that contribute to smog

14 – Start your day by watching the sunrise.