subject: Energy Savings For The Do It Yourselfer [print this page] How can a homeowner go green exactly? Being that we're in the age of going green, not just homeowners are concerned about their carbon footprint. In fact, from students to executives, many people are considering the planet and the potential to save money with each purchase and lifestyle decisions.
Cars are going hybrid, stores are offering reusable bags, recycled material is being used to make more products, and homes are becoming more energy efficient. There are plenty of ways to save energy and money. Here are a few things you can try before having an energy expert inspect your home.
Efficient Appliances
Most everyone has appliances whether televisions, clothes washer and dryers, lights, DVD players, or microwaves. Any of these appliances can waste energy - some even when turned to their off position.
When off is really on, you've found what's called a phantom appliance. Unbeknownst to you, this appliance is still sucking away energy because it has a clock, a light, sound, or heat that is being projected at all times. These all require energy and by plugging such items into a surge protector you can guarantee each item is completely off when the surge protector is switched off. In addition, you could simply keep such items unplugged until in use.
Always look for the ENERGY STAR seal for any product whether a clothes washer, computer or light bulb. This seal means a product meets or exceeds the energy requirements and offers high energy efficiency.
How to Conserve Water
Do you flush your tissues; leave the water running while you are brushing your teeth or to warm up the shower before you get in? Maybe you're known for taking the longest showers and you love filling the bath tub to the brim nearly flooding your bathroom with water.
Whatever the case, these habits can be easily changed to use less water saving you money. Water is easy to "waste" when many have it in abundance. But, it's not as abundant everywhere and although the cost tends to remain rather consistent, it could one day increase.
Water is a valuable resource that is worth conserving, whether that means making minor adjustments here and there to when you do laundry, how long you spend bathing or showering, and your dish washing techniques. Save water and some money - that's a good deal.
Consult an Expert?
These tips can prove very helpful in saving some money on utility bills; however there are several other ways to save and to make for a much more comfortable home. From insulation, to ductwork, sealing and replacement doors and windows; there are plenty of ways to make your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. No longer waste heat and extra dollars, keep the unwanted air outside your home.
A home energy expert is someone who is trained and certified to help diagnose and repair problem areas in any home.
