This Friday, October 5, is the third annual Energy Efficiency Day in the USA. The Energy Efficiency Day message is simple: “Save energy. Save money”
Organizations and individuals across the country will take steps to reduce energy waste and share social media posts promoting the benefits of energy efficiency. Take one of 10 simple steps to reduce energy waste – and tell the world about it on social media with the #EEDay2018 hashtag. Want to show the world that you care about energy efficiency on Friday? Here are a few things the Alliance to Save Energy recommends to do for reducing energy waste at home and at work.
The Alliance to Save Energy Recommendations:
1. Make the switch to LED
They last at least 25 times longer and consume up to 90 percent less electricity than incandescent bulbs.
2. Seal Those Leaks
On average, heating and cooling account for almost half of a home’s energy consumption. In fact, all the little leaks can be equivalent to leaving open a 3-foot-by-3-foot window.
Tip: Take simple steps like caulking windows, sealing leaks around chimneys and recessed lighting, and sliding draft guards under your doors to save up to 20% on heating costs.
3. Turn the Electronics Off
That sounds easy, but too often we forget and leave electronics plugged in that are not in use.
Tip: Turn off unnecessary/idle lights, appliances and electronics. A power strip can help turn off multiple items at once. (Sometimes the simplest things are really effective!)
4. Winter Tip: Invite the Sun In
It feels like the sun abandons us during the winter, but that doesn’t mean we should ignore it during the shorter days.
Tip: Open curtains/shade on your west-and south-facing windows during the day to allow sunlight to naturally heat your home and save 2%-12%.
5. Summer Tip: Close Blinds and Shades
This tip is easy to forget, but vital: excess sunlight will make it harder to keep your home cool and comfortable.
6. Clean Your Clothing Efficiently
That’s an easy one. A washing machine spends 90% of its energy to heat water.
Tip: Consider using cold water instead. In addition, try to run full loads as much as possible, because the machine uses roughly the same amount of energy regardless of the load size. Also, consider air-drying.
