Energy sucks. We also need it. So how can we reduce the energy use in our homes without feeling like we’re in the little house on the prairie?
Reducing energy is a major way we can help deal with climate change. And it doesn’t have t be hard. These tips are so easy you can even start implementing them today!
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How to reduce energy in your home:
1. Switch to energy-efficient light bulbs
They’re no more expensive than regular lightbulbs so next time a light goes out, replace it with one that will save energy instead of overuse it.
2. Turn off lights when not in use
If no one is in that room, the light doesn’t need to be on. Also, ask yourself if you even need lights on. Most of the time if you have decent windows, you can get away with natural light most hours of the day. Try to get away without using lights if not necessary.
3. Hang your clothes to dry if possible
Dryers use a lot of energy. Now I know that not everyone has space for a clothesline, but consider an indoor clothes rack to dry some things. Especially if it’s a smaller load. There’s no point in wasting energy on a small load.
4. Wash your clothes in cold water
Speaking of laundry, the reason why dryers use so much energy is that it takes a lot of energy to heat them. The same goes for heating water. Water usage aside, it takes copious amounts of energy just to heat the water. And if you’re taking warm showers, hot baths, washing dishes in warm water, etc, that’s energy that can be saved on your laundry. Your clothes don’t even need to be washed in hot water! The cold water will not only save energy but also prolong the life of your clothes.
5. Insulate your house
My dad used to always yell at us not to leave the door open too long in the wintertime. He didn’t want us “heating the outside”. Which I thought was ridiculous as a child but as a homeowner now, I get it. There are lots of places where drafts can get in and use extra energy.
6. Unplug items when not in use
When I’m not using my phone charger or computer charger, I make sure to unplug them. While I don’t do this with big appliances, it’s really helpful to just do the small ones. This way energy isn’t running through the cords and going nowhere.
7. Bundle up before turning up the heat
Each degree you bump up on your thermostat can use between 6 and 8% more energy than before. Try to dress warmly indoors in the colder months to prevent having to crank the heat.
8. Keep your blinds drawn in the summer
The summer sun can really warm a room or a house if you have lots of windows. Try to keep your blinds drawn as much as possible to avoid having to crank your AC and have it work overtime.
Related reading:
5 small ways to combat climate change
Reducing energy doesn’t have to be hard or expensive. In fact, it will save you money in the long run and help our the planet along the way!
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