Nowadays it is safe to say that the majority of us are familiar with the term “Environmentally aware.” The importance of taking measures into being more “green” conscientious has been repeatedly stressed over the last few years, but with all the big steps companies and organizations are taking the only question left is in regards to what we can do to help too. What most of us don’t realize is that becoming more environmentally aware is not as expensive as it would seem. An empty pocket is not necessary in order to take a few steps towards taking part in this “green wave.”
Another attractive characteristic of this practice is that it also reduces our costs. By helping the environment we can also save a substantial amount of money. Below are a few tips to save energy in a free or low cost way.
Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs: Although many ignore this option because they may think the light quality is not the same, there has been tremendous progress over the past years in regards to these bulbs. There’s more variety when it comes to the light they project and they use 25 to 30% less energy which yields to an average of $100-$200 in savings for your electric bill. They reduce the carbon pollution and because they last longer, you won’t need as many throughout the year.
Home Appliances: There are many new appliances that are environmentally friendly, but you can also make your own environmentally friendly appliance with the ones you already have. By giving them the right maintenance, turning off electronics and chargers when not in used, reducing the unnecessary drying time for clothes and dishes and setting up full loads, you won’t be wasting unnecessary energy and/or water.
Install devices to moderate energy consumption: There are new several devices that can be installed to our washers, dryers, etc., that are similar to sensors that indicate when there is no need for extra energy consumption by shutting off or going into an automatic mode.
Adjust water heat accordingly: Heating up the water takes a lot of energy, and the majority of the time the water heat is adjusted beyond the temperature we really need. When it’s not in use it can be set to regular temperature, especially during summer time or shut off when it’s not used at all.
Watch out for leaks: Even if a leak is small, it can add up to large quantities of water that are not being used. Check your faucets and hoses for any potential leaks.
These are a few tips that are simple, inexpensive and that can not only help the environment but also our pocket. For more tips check out the following websites:
1. The New Efficient Light Bulbs: http://www.nrdc.org/energy/lightbulbs
