Conservation-How much can it save you?

Conservation for little or no cost can save you a lot of money. A minor life style change like turning off a 100 watt light bulb can put $25.00/year back in your pocket. Switching to compact florescent can save $80.00/year for the typical household. Other ways to save are:

• Seal cracks and gaps around windows, doors and corners with caulk and weather-strip.
• Turning down the water heater to 120 degrees F saves 6-10% on your energy bill.
• Low flow shower heads save 1/3-1/2 that an old style fixture uses.
• Wash clothes in cold water and use hot water for only very dirty clothes.
• Energy Star washing machines use less than 1/2 the water and energy that old machine.
• Choose a front loading washing machine for cleaner and more water and efficiency over top loading styles.
• Using your dishwasher can save 5,000 gallons of water each year and $40.00 in utilities.
• Wash full loads dishes. It cost the same to wash one dish as it does to wash a full load.
• Microwaves, convection ovens and crock pots use less energy than a stove or oven.
• A clean Microwave is more efficient than a dirty one.
• Use a fan first before you use air conditioning.
• In summer take advantage of the cooler night temperatures to cool your home.
• Set the thermostat to 78 degrees F in summer and 65 degrees in winter.
• Set your mower higher. Longer grass loses less water to evaporation.
• A shut-off nozzle saves water when watering plants.
• Use lids to keep in steam in to cook more quickly to reduce cooking time and use less energy.
• Check the refrigerator temperature it should be between 36 and 38 degrees.
• Clean furnace filters monthly to maintain high airflow and efficiency.
• Unplug power adapters and chargers when done charging cell phones, tablets, laptops, digital cameras, music players and other electrical devices to stop drawing phantom power.
• Windows coverings should be closed on hot summer days to keep heat out and open in cold winter days to let the sun's warmth in.
• Shut the fireplace flue when not using the fireplace.

 Technology is constantly improving efficiency but even simple lifestyle changes are money in the bank.