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Reduce Energy Consumption and Save Money
Posted: 5-28-2010
Veronica Smith, Public Relations Intern,
Hamilton County Department of Environmental Services
If you think going green is only about hybrid cars and solar panels, think again. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), there are plenty of ways to reduce your environmental impact right from home, without spending a dime.
Unplug electronic devices that are not in use
Did you know that electronic devices like computers, TVs and cell phones continue to drain power even while they are off and/or fully charged? According to the DOE, 75 percent of electricity used to power the average home is consumed while the products are off. To save energy, be sure to totally cut off power to your gizmos while they are not in use. Also consider using rechargeable batteries which are more cost effective than throwaway batteries. Just make sure you unplug them once fully charged!
Drive Safely
To help get the most out of your car, drive sensibly. Constantly speeding, accelerating and rapidly braking wastes gasoline and puts wear and tear on your vehicle. Also keep tires properly inflated to get the most out of your tank and protect those inside. Take unnecessary items out of the car. An extra 100 lbs in your vehicle could reduce your fuel efficiency by up to 2%. Lastly, consider carpooling. It’s a great way to save energy, money and make new friends.
Cook faster, more efficiently
When it comes to making meals, a few simple tricks can save a lot of time, heat and energy. First, cover your pots with lids in order to get liquids to boil more quickly. Also be sure to use the correct size burner for your pot or pan while cooking. Finally, use electric pans or toaster ovens for cooking smaller meals. According to the DOE, a toaster oven uses up to half as much energy as a full sized oven.
Wash wisely
Nearly 90 percent of the energy used for clothes washing goes to heating the water for a wash cycle. To help cut back on energy consumption, wash clothes in hot water only when necessary, and always wash and dry full loads of laundry. When drying, try to dry heavy towels in a load separate from lighter items, clean your lint trap after every cycle, and air dry clothes whenever possible.
You can also save money by using your dishwasher more efficiently. Fill your dishwasher before starting a load, but be careful not to overfill. You can also let your dishes air dry by turning off the dishwasher after the final rinse cycle. Try opening the door to help the dishes dry a little faster.
Being green isn’t always about spending money. While new technologies are doing a lot to help reduce waste and utilize energy more efficiently, you can start small and save big by incorporating these simple changes into your daily routine.
