Getting Started with Energy Conservation
IREJN strongly recommends congregational and home energy audits. Audits analyze current energy use, areas of waste and options for improving energy efficiency. Try these steps to save energy and help your budget right now – even before an audit!
1. Take Control with the OFF Switch, Thermostat and Timer – Avoid heating, cooling or lighting space that is not being used. Programmable thermostats can adjust temperatures while maintaining comfort; timers control lights for efficiency and safety.
2. Conserve by Degrees — Reduce your heating and cooling one or two degrees at a time and try to get acclimated. Think sweaters in the winter, but not during the summer with the a. c. blasting!
3. Let It Circulate – Experience the maximum comfort from your heating and cooling by making sure that vents are not obstructed by rugs or furniture.
4. Beware the Phantom – Limit the standby power consumption (phantom load) of electronic devices such as televisions or computers that consume power even when turned off. Unplug each device or control several simultaneously with a central power strip.
5. Let There Be Light, But Make It a CFL or LED – Lighting quality continues to improve as costs go down. You can generally save at least 75% of the energy of an incandescent bulb. Check on dimmable and outdoor options as well as Energy Star qualification.
6. Don’t Heat It Up to Cool It Down – Water heating is a major energy user. Experts suggest setting the temperature on your hot water heater to 120 degrees or the lowest standard setting. An insulation blanket for a tank that feels warm saves even more energy.
7. Slow the Flow – First repair water leaks. Then install low-flow showerheads and low-flow faucets to save water and the energy needed to heat the water.
8. Let It Dry or Get It Dry – Letting clothes dry on an outdoor or indoor line is the most energy efficient way to go. If you use a dryer, you can reduce energy use by cleaning the lint filter before each load, cleaning the outside vent regularly and not over-drying.
9. Use Your Dishwasher Just for Washing – Do not use the heated drying cycle. Use energy-saver drying or, if you don’t have that option, just open the door and let everything air dry.
10. Seek Leaks and Seal Them – Check for drafts. Caulking and weather-stripping around windows and exterior doors seals air leaks. When heated or cooled air no longer escapes outdoors, you save energy. Exterior wall switch plate and outlet gaskets also stop air leaks.
Do you want to check out 100 more energy savings ideas?
The Connecticut Energy Efficiency Fund and CT Energy Info offer a list of large and small tips (http://www NULL.ctenergyinfo NULL.com/residential_tips NULL.htm?show_submenu=wcwkvsg0) including many that are no-cost.
