I’m no expert, but in my surfing and bill paying, I’ve learned about a lot of big and small things you can do to save energy in the home. I’ve managed to do all the small stuff, and if it weren’t for the fact that I rent my home, I’d have already delved into the bigger stuff.
Here’s a start… more thoughts are always welcome!
The small stuff:
CFL Lightbulbs--When your next light burns out, replace it with a CFL (don’t replace it before it burns out, as replacing when unnecessary is a huge waste of energy). Compact Fluorescent Lamps will cost more, but last WAY longer, and use up less electricity.
Life unplugged--Unplug appliances when you’re not using them, including laptops once they’ve charged. Just plugged-in cords drain electricity.
Don’t forget--Turn off lights, A/C and entertainment systems in rooms you’re not in. Use sunlight when you can.
Clean up--Clean your appliances often (refrigerator, dryer, washer and A/C lint screens, even computers). The cleaner they are, the less energy they need to use to cool/heat/clean/fan.
Air dry--If you’re in a warm, dry or mild climate, use a clothesline or clotheshorse to dry laundry. It takes almost the same amount of time and saves so much!
Thermo-smart--Get a timed thermostat (and set it!) so you’re not heating or cooling the house when no one is there. Turn your heater two degrees down in the winter, and A/C two degrees up. The difference won’t be much for you, but noticeable in the pocket book.
Bigger stuff:
If you’ve already gotten savvy to the little lifestyle changes you can make, but want to do more for the environment (not to mention if the energy bill is still not coming down), there are many things you can do:
Energy Audit--You can start with a self-energy-audit. Take a close inventory of all drafty areas in the house, particularly around seals, pipes, wall corners and moldings, wires and electrical sockets, and naturally windows and doors. Often, you can seal problem areas, or get a professional to do it, pretty easily (and cheaply).
Energy Audit Take 2--Professional Energy Audits are also a good way to go. Some energy companies give free energy audits (check your local energy company’s website, or call them directly). A pro comes to your home and surveys the whole home, inside and out, for energy leaks and efficiency of appliances. With their report, you can prioritize repairs--for example, they can determine if door and window replacement is necessary, or if only small seals are needed.
Appliance Selection--Choose appliances with Energy Star ® or other energy efficiency Ratings. Some energy companies also provide rebates for these! (Including PG&E and Southern California Edison). Again, try not to go out and buy something new unless you need to, but when you do, choose the right appliance.
Green Professionals--If you do end up needing work done on the home to reduce energy use, get a professional that’s well-versed in green homes and energy issues. Make sure they know that’s (at least part of) your goal with the project. This way the work will be done in line with your own ideals.