January Climate Challenge — Conserving Energy in the Home

Electricity:

• Turn off and/or unplug electrical items when not in use. Some items continue to use electricity when turned off
• Use LED bulbs – replace lights you use most first
• Use drying rack or clothesline for clothing instead of the dryer

Heat:

• Turn down heat at night to 60 degrees; 50 when away for several days (air conditioner set at “up” or “off” in warm weather)
• Warm the person rather than the space: dress in layers, heavy socks and sweaters, long underwear
• Depending on thermostat locations and heat/cool design, close doors/vents to areas not being used so heat can build up where you actually are
• Roll a towel and place at the base of doors and windows
• Hang heavy curtains or single/double honeycomb shades over windows
• Caulk doors and windows, seal with masking tape – quick fix for air leaks

Water:

• Take shorter showers
• Take fewer showers
• Don’t let hot water run when washing dishes or hair
• Don’t leave water running when brushing teeth
• Get water-saver shower heads
• Wash clothes in warm or cold water rather than hot
• When leaving home for more than three days, turn down the hot water heater

Longer-Term:

• When shopping for new appliances, look for those marked Energy Star Certification
• Install storm windows
• Upgrade insulation
• Install a “heat pump” hot water heater for both heating and cooling
• Install solar panels – if you are in a poor location for panels or you are a renter, look into buying into green energy. Your electric company may have advice.
• Purchase an electric car (EV) or plug-in hybrid if you have access to charging capability.

Important resource:

February Challenge – TBA