Twenty Five Easy Ways to Conserve Energy at Home

Whether you want to slash your family’s monthly energy bill, become a good role models for your kids, or literally save the world from global warming, the logical place to begin conserving is at home.  Anything from turning off the lights to learning how to build a solar panel will save energy.  Give these simple, inexpensive and effective DIY ideas a try.      

1.     Seal and Insulate 

• Fill or block leaks with insulation, calk, expanding foam, duct sealant, and weather stripping.  
• Get advice from a professional regarding the correct application for each material. Using the products in the wrong way can be extremely toxic or create a fire hazard.  
• Determine if attic insulation is adequate.  The recommended level is 10-14 inches deep at an R-value 38.
• Plant trees and shrubs to cool and insulate your home year round 

2.       Reduce Wasteful Energy Use

• Invest in a programmable thermostat (saves 15% on heating and cooling)
• Invest in compact fluorescent light bulbs/CFL (75% less energy and last 10 x longer)
• Clean filters for heat and AC
• Turn off lights and phantom loads (power strips)
• Only run full dishwashers and washing machines
• Open windows and use fans for cooling (AC increases energy cost 7-10%)
• Buy local goods to save on transportation fuels
• Wear a cozy sweater and thicker socks to keep warm
• Walk or ride your bike

3.       Consider Installing Solar.  It’s cheaper and cleaner than Electricity, Propane or Oil  

• Solar panels can be built at home  
• Solar can passively heat water OR
• Solar can actively power your entire home
• It is becoming more affordable every year

4.       Shop “Green” When Making Major Purchases  

• ENERGY STAR ® Appliances and fixtures (use between 10 and 50% less water and energy)
• ENERGY STAR ® Storm windows, doors and skylights
• Fuel efficient or hybrid cars
• Use sustainable building materials (bamboo vs. oak)

5.      Be Smart About Water Usage Too

• Cut waste by turning off unnecessary water flow
• Fix indoor and outdoor leaks and drips 
• Design landscape with water savings in mind
• Water during the early morning or evening hours
• Go to a car wash that recycles water
• Learn how to use your gray water

Americans overall, are a wasteful lot.  Even though we are beginning to find ways to save ($19 Billion of energy savings in 2010) we still waste nearly one half of all of the energy we buy!  There are hundreds of ways to save the planet’s energy while improving home comfort levels and cutting monthly costs.  

In the best of all worlds, the small savings we get when we improve efficiency can be spent on investing in more sustainability for generations down the road.  It comes down to making small changes to our thinking and our habits for the long term good.

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