Energy efficiency tips

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No matter how you spin it, there is no denying that we are affecting our planet through rampant energy consumption. From the diminishing ice caps to the average rise in temperature over the last hundred years, our physical world is changing faster than ever before in history – due largely to our carbon output. While there are some alternative-energy sources (solar, wind, etc.), most households in America still use fossil fuel-based energy, and coal-burning power plants contribute a good chunk of carbon dioxide (CO2) to our atmosphere. CO2 is one of the major compounds responsible for global warming.

Although something simple like turning off an appliance may not have dire global effects, every amount of energy we consume supports a process that releases harmful chemicals into our atmosphere. But turning off appliances is just a start; there are many more energy efficiency tips that will help make our world a cleaner place (as well as saving you some money on your utility bills!).

Firstly, our government has implemented its own certification of efficiency: Energy Star. Back in 1992, the Environmental Protection Agency created the voluntary label so consumers could determine environmentally-safe products. The label has determines whether a product uses appropriate amounts of energy and doesn’t release any excessive greenhouse gasses into our atmosphere. Since its inception, the star/arch label can be found on anything from battery chargers to computers to air conditioners – basically anything that uses power. Using Energy Star products can save up to 30% on your energy bills.

All around our houses, we have the potential for saving energy – even if it’s through seemingly-basic methods. Lighting uses a lot of energy, especially incandescent light bulbs (the production of these also involves hazardous CFCs). By replacing only 25 % of your normal light bulbs with fluorescents, you can save 50% on your next lighting bill.

For you high-temperature dwellers, it’s always a good idea to keep your air-conditioner in outstanding condition. This means replace the filters regularly; those left alone will collect mold and cause blockages, which means a lot of wasted energy. Also, maintaining all of your appliances will help you save money in the end – cleaning the coils of your refrigerator, setting it to 36-39 degrees F, and the freezer to 0-5 degrees F will also lower your energy cost.

Some very basic energy efficiency tips include unplugging appliances when they’re not in use – even if they’re off, an appliance will still drain energy if left plugged in.

Other tips include:

• Try air-drying dishes and clothing instead of putting them in a machine.
• Turn the thermostat down 10 degrees at night.
• Close curtains in the summer time to avoid excessive air-conditioning.
• Plug the chimney flue to prevent heat from escaping in the winter.
• Use lamps when brightness is not necessary.

GreenDimes can get you started and will plant a tree in honor of your efforts to make an impact!

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