Conserving Energy

As our world becomes more and more dependent on technology, conserving energy is more important than ever. The good news is that we are getting better at designing appliances, computers, and other electronics that are more energy efficient. The bad news is that we are using more and more of these items in our daily lives.

What to do? Reducing your carbon footprint doesn't mean that you need to give up all of the gizmos and gadgets that make our lives more efficient and entertaining. Conserving energy just means that we need to be more responsible about how we use these modern day conveniences.

Easy Ways to Conserve Energy

Turn Off Your Lights
You don't have to live in a cave, but just by turning your lights off when you are not using them can make a serious dent in your carbon footprint.

Turn Up the Temperature on Your Fridge
Lots of people keep their refrigerators colder than they really need to be, wasting valuable energy every day. Conserving energy while keeping your condiments cool is quick and easy.

Wash Your Clothes in Full Loads
Nearly 80% of the energy used by your washing machine goes to heating the water. By using warm water instead of hot and by washing your clothes in full loads, you can save energy and shrink your carbon footprint.

Be Your Own Dishwasher
Your dishwasher may be convenient, but it takes a lot of energy to heat the water and run the dry cycle. You don't have to give up your dishwasher entirely, just make a few changes to conserve energy and reduce your carbon footprint.

Cook Smarter
Nothing's better than a hot, home-cooked meal. Find out easy ways that you can create that great home-cooked taste while conserving energy.

Unplug It
Even when your turn off your electronics and appliances, many of them are still drawing electricity - some up to 50% of the power that they use when they are on. Save energy by unplugging electronics when they are not in use.

Put Your Computer to Sleep
We all like to nap every once in a while, even your computer. Screen savers don't save any energy, but putting your computer to sleep can.

Look for the Energy Star Label
If you are buying a new appliance, don't just consider the price tag, think about the amount of energy that appliance will use. Saving energy means saving money. Appliances with the Energy Star use less energy and give you valuable info to make an informed decision.

Wrap Your Water Heater
There's nothing like the feeling of wrapping up in a nice warm blanket and your water heater feels the same way. Wrapping your water heater means that less heat escapes from the tank and that less energy is needed to heat your water.

Consider Solar Energy
Solar energy is one of the cleanest alternative forms of energy available today. When you install solar panels or purchase energy from power plants that use solar energy, you are reducing your greenhouse gas emissions and your carbon footprint.

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