We don't usually realize that we are saving money at the same time that we are conserving energy. When we look at products that say you will save $xx.xx amount of money, it can seem like a small amount all by itself. But when you combine these savings, they truly add up to alot, and keep adding up as time goes by. For each energy-saving product that we use we are cutting down on our ecological footprint - not only saving money, but also our nonrenewable resources and pollution. There are so many things we can do. We have listed some here, and will add more as we become aware of them. And, once again, remember that every little change you make does make a tremendous difference!
Turn off appliances, tv's, and electronics when not in use - better yet, plug all electric appliances and electronics into power strips that can be turned off. The energy savings can be up to 1/3 off your electric bill
Don't leave water running needlessly - especially when brushing teeth and washing dishes
Use water from cooking vegetables for soup stock
Check your plumbing for leaks and insulate pipes in unprotected areas - needing less energy to heat
Close off rooms that are not in use and close air/heat vents
Caulk, weatherstrip and seal windows and doors
Foam around electric outlets to seal
Change or clean filters in furnace to increase airflow allowing unit to work less
Insulate attics and outside walls
Update windows and doors for best seals
Use rechargable batteries
Don't use electric appliances for jobs you can do easily by hand
Use a Travel Stove that burns 'anything' and generates electricity
Install energy-saving flows on faucets
Install water saving toilets
Use insulated curtains and blinds
Open curtains/blinds in winter for warmth
Close curtains/blinds on sunny sides of house in summer
Open windows as much as possible and use fans - raise A/C temp
Dress for the weather in winter (adding layers) - lower Heater temp
Add blankets and comforters at night in winter - lower Heater temp even more
Close off fireplace with a glass door unit - allows heat to radiate out into the room
Close fireplace damper when not in use
Insulate/wrap hot water heaters
Lower hot water heater temps to 130°
Install Hot-On Demand hot water for whole house
Wash laundry with cold water
Hang clothes to dry - whether inside or outside
Open the dishwasher for the dry cycle
Put a catalytic converter in your wood stove
Install timers for outdoor lighting, and inside when away from home
Purchase a hybrid or high mileage vehicle
Install compact fluorescent bulbs
Install programmable thermostats
Replace windows, doors and appliances with Energy Star products-information at www.energystar.gov/
When building a new home, or remodeling, think about radiant heat or new baseboard heating systems - no more air ducts! This also allows you to have different settings for each room, saving a tremendous amount of money not heating, or overheating rooms
Get an energy audit - you can call your utility provider and ask them to do an energy audit (usually free) or this is one Kansas resource: www.ratingsalliance.org/raters/ks.htm
Install solar power when possible - there are many different solar energy systems now and the technology has improved so there is no longer a problem with storage of the power
Let legislators know we need to be able to sell back to the power companies when we are generating more power than we need
Encourage your local, state and national legislators to make wind and solar power a priority
