Reducing Energy Use Can Equal Savings for You & the Planet

In our modern lives, we rely a lot on energy. We pay for that energy use in our utility bills—and also in the form of climate change. Home energy consumption produces carbon dioxide, a major greenhouse gas. Fortunately, there’s a lot you can do to reduce your energy use at home:

Upgrade your bulbs: Change to energy- efficient bulbs, such as LED, which use 25-80% less energy than traditional incandescents.

Reduce A/C use: In summer, combine your A/C use with a ceiling fan (which uses far less energy) so that you can raise A/C temperature with no change in comfort. Avoid using the oven on hot days, and stop hot air from leaking in from the outside by sealing cracks and openings.

Change your laundry habits: Always wash full loads, and use cold water when possible, which can cut energy use in half. Hang dry clothes when you can. Keep the dryer lint filter clean for maximum efficiency.

Reduce water usage: Energy is required to treat, transport, and heat water, so the less you use, the less energy is needed. You can also take shorter showers and turn off the water while shaving and brushing teeth.