 There
are two good reasons to conserve energy in your home this winter.
First of all, according to environment-savvy company Earth 911
"energy efficiency and conservation go a long way toward preserving
our planet's rich natural resources and promoting a healthy
environment". The other reason is, quite simply-it's been cold out
there. Central Virginia is experiencing record cold temperatures
this winter, which are driving up your heating costs.
Here are some tips from our friends at Earth 911 that will go a
long way in reducing the amount of energy you are consuming at home.
- In the winter, turn your thermostats down to 68 degrees or
below. Reduce the setting to 55 degrees before going to sleep or
when leaving for the day. (For each 1 degree you turn down the
thermostat in the winter, you'll save up to 5% on your heating
costs.)
- Turn off non-essential lights and appliances. The electricity
generated by fossil fuels for a single home puts more carbon
dioxide into the air than two average cars!
- Avoid running large appliances such as washers, dryers, and
electric ovens during peak energy demand hours from 5:00 a.m. to
9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Close shades and blinds at night to reduce the amount of heat
lost through windows. This also applies during the day for warm
climates.
- Buy Energy Star appliances, products and lights. This will cut
your energy bill by 30 percent.
- Set your washing machine for cold water rinse and only use hot
water when necessary. A full load uses less water than two small
ones.
- Wait to run your dishwasher until it is full. Allow dishes to
air dry.
- Set your water heater below 120 degrees. You can save 13
percent for each 10 degrees lower.
- Consider purchasing new appliances if yours are more than 10
years old. Newer models use 30 percent less electricity.
We here at CVWMA can't wait to implement these energy saving tips
at our homes. We hope that our recycling citizens stay warm (and
green) this winter!
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