9 Things to Lower Your Energy Impact
Posted on February 20, 2016
When you conserve energy, you not only save money, you can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change. There are many ways, big and small, to use less power, but quick & simple changes are a good place to start. Here are 9 things you can do today to save energy:
1. Unplug: Did you know energy is always leaking through anything that’s plugged in? It’s called phantom energy and it’s draining your power! Walk around your home and unplug anything not in use. Power bars are great, because you can switch them on and off without trying to find all the plugs at the back of your devices.
2. Air Dry: Start hanging your clothes to dry instead of using the dryer (it helps them last too!). If you really need fluffy towels, then air dry and throw them in the dryer for the last 5 minutes to fluff them up. You can also turn the heated dry setting off on your dishwasher and let those dishes air-dry too.
3. Electronics: If you can, remember to turn off your computers, laptops and other electronics when you’re done with them. Screen savers aren’t energy savers! If you're not allowed to turn off your computer at work, at least turn off the monitor which is taking up some of that phantom power.
4. Go Green: The money you save from lowering your energy bill can be invested in renewable energy to offset what you are using. Consider signing up online for an Alberta green energy provider, such as Bull Frog Power or Green Alberta Energy. If you want to go a step further and install solar panels, contact Skyfire Energy.
5. Seal ducts: Go around your home with mastic sealant or metal tape and seal the air duck joints. All those places cold air gets into your home causes you to use more energy to keep it warm.
6. Use the Sun: When it’s cold out, leave blinds or drapes open on sunny days, and then close them at night to keep the heat in. During the summer, close blinds to keep out those rays and the heat.
7. Set it: The most energy efficient temperature for your refrigerator is between 3-6 degrees Celcius, and your freezer should be set around -15 degrees Celcius.
8. Ceiling fans: Use that fan to keep your house comfortable. Clockwise moves warm air down in the winter and counter-clockwise cools rooms in the summer. But don't forget to turn them off when no one is home!
9. Book a green tea: Book a green tea in home consult for you and a few friends. One of our Facilitators will provide tips and tools on energy conservation and so much more! Hosts receive aprox. $50 in green cleaning products, water saving fixtures and personalized solutions totally free!
For many more ideas that save energy, cash and the Earth, check out our energy efficiency Tip Sheet. Have you found other ways to conserve energy? Tweet or post what you're doing to share with others!
