Replace Light Bulbs
I realize Energy Star Rated Light Bulbs are more expensive initially than regular light bulbs, but consider this: according to NHsaves.com, "A typical ENERGY STAR rated Compact Fluorescent Lamp (CFL) lasts up to 10 times longer than an equivalent incandescent bulb and uses 75% less energy." That turns into REAL savings over time! Besides, you don't have to replace every light bulb in your house at the same time. Pick a time frame and replace one room at a time, or simply wait until a bulb burns out - then replace it (and any other bulbs in that light fixture) with something more efficient.
Right now there are bonus savings available. For a limited time, rebates are available for energy efficient light bulbs and fixtures (expires 12/31/2012):
$1 towards compact fluorescent light bulbs - download the $1 Rebate Form (PDF) here.*
$3 towards compact fluorescent light bulbs - download the $3 Rebate Form (PDF) here.*
$5 towards compact fluorescent light bulbs - download the $5 Rebate Form (PDF) here.*
$7 towards compact fluorescent light bulbs - download the $7 Rebate Form (PDF) here.*
$10 towards interior or exterior light fixtures and torchieres- download the $10 Rebate Form (PDF) here.* Look for other special values with multi-packs as well.
Of course, you also want to be sure to shut lights off when you're not using them.
Install a Programmable Thermostat:
I'm sure you've heard of this one - and it's a no-brainer. Fairly inexpensive and you can essentially set it and forget it. According to the US Department of Energy, "You can save around 10% a year on your heating and cooling bills by simply turning your thermostat back 10°–15° for eight hours." Just install the thermostat and program it to turn down the heat (or turn up the AC) during hours you are at work or in bed at night.
Replace Major Appliances:
OK, this one is a little more expensive than light bulbs, but it sure does help the environment as it helps to reduce the amount of resources you use - water and energy. You can actually calculate the amount of energy each of your appliances uses by renting a meter. I know some libraries offer rental of "Kill-A-Watt" Kits to help you figure out how much energy each pf your current appliances uses so you can compare to potential newer models and decide which appliances should be replaced first. This is a great tool, and it's free to use if you're borrowing it from the library.
Unplug Computers and TV's When Not In Use:
This is not an easy one to remember. However, there are advantages, saving energy and saving money, if you do it. Believe it or not, even when a computer or TV is off it is still using power. To make this task easy, consider investing in a Smart Strip power strip with auto-switching technology that automatically shuts down devices that are not in use, saving you money and reducing your overall energy usage. Simply plug your computer and computer components (printer, scanner)or home entertainment center peripherals into the Smart Strip. When you power down your computer or stereo, the Smart Strip automatically shuts down the power to your computer's and entertainment center's peripherals. Again, you spend a little more in advance, and although you don't save a ton, it is well worth it in the end.
Check and Replace (if needed) Your Heating and Cooling System:
When we moved into our home the heating system was old, but in great condition...so we left it in place. A few years later we had the system evaluated and found out it was running at about 60% efficiency. The system hadn't broken down just yet, but we knew it was old and we didn't want it to break down in the middle of winter. We decided to replace it with a 95% efficient system. WOW! We noticed a savings in our propane gas bill right away - and it was SIGNIFICANT...around $200 per month, then the price adjusted slightly over time because of the plan we are on. The money saved has helped to offset the cost of the new system, and knowing it's better for the environment is just an added bonus. We have not replaced the AC unit yet - we're waiting for that one to actually die (we don't consider it a necessity, so if it breaks down we can survive - I'm sure we'll regret that decision when it happens, though!). Regardless, I am convinced that when we do get around to replacing the central air conditioning unit, we will notice a money savings and energy usage difference on our electricity bill right away.
Filling in the Holes with Insulation:
Most of us already have insulation in our homes, but you'd be surprised to find out where it is missing and how much it would help to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
For energy efficiency, your home should be properly insulated from the roof down to its foundation. This includes the following areas:
- Attic spaces including attic access doors and knee walls
- Around air ducts
- Cathedral ceilings
- Exterior walls
- Floors above unheated garages
- Foundations, including basements, crawl spaces, slab-on-grade floors
Replace Old Windows:
This is a huge one. It costs ALOT for really good windows, but the drafts will stop and you will offset your costs with energy and money savings. Do your research first. There are tons of options for windows - frames (wood, vinyl, or composite), Low-E and solar control coating, number of panes (single, double or triple pane windows), and gas filling between panes. Each option can add cost as well as add energy savings. This is one we plan to do when we have the money to do it - but we plan on doing it right. There is no sense in replacing old windows with new ones if the new ones are cheap and hardly reduce your energy usage. There are other things to consider, too...style, design, etc. so it is a big decision to make.
If you're like us and you can't afford to replace windows at the moment, visit the US Department of Energy's website for Improving the Energy Efficiency of Existing Windows.
There are so many other ways to invest in a greener approach to everyday life while reaping the money saving benefits. If you'd like more information and other ideas, let me know and I would be happy to write another segment on this topic. Hopefully this article will get you thinking and help get you started.
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