Use less Energy & Save Money!

If you are like me you feel a vague unease about the state of the Environment and feel a little useless in the grand scheme of things! We compost and recycle but I know that we could still do more! Here are a couple of things that I have done that can help save energy AND money!

Replace incandescent bulbs with fluorescent bulbs
The average home has approximately 35 incandescent light bulbs. If you replace all of your bulbs you can cut your costs in half!

Compact fluorescent light bulbs use about 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs and last 10 times longer. When replacing incandescent lights choose a fluorescent bulb with a quarter of the wattage of the incandescent in order to get the same quality. You can save $3.27/bulb/year by replacing a 60W incandescent bulb with a 15W fluorescent bulb. If all 35 bulbs in a house were replaced there would be a $114.45 savings. While fluorescent bulbs may cost more initially they save you money in the long run with lower bills and fewer replacements. By using less electricity fluorescent bulbs also help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. I purchased a whole bunch of bulbs over a year ago and I have not had to replace one!

Invest in a programmable thermostat
Programmable thermostats are inexpensive to buy (about $45), easy to install and an excellent way to reduce your energy bill. They automatically change the temperature of your house to coincide with your household's schedule. At times when everyone is away, it can be set to turn down the heat. In the evening it can turn the heat up again before you get home. At night, while your family sleeps, it can lower the temperature until it's time for your household's morning routine. The most energy efficient temperature settings are a difference between 4ºC home and away settings. For every degree the automatic thermostat lowers your heating level, you'll save 3% on your heating bill. It's a "set and forget" solution that adds up to big savings.

Stop unnecessary idling
Stopping unnecessary vehicle idling is a relatively easy way to contribute to improved air quality and respiratory health in our communities. It will also translate into lower fuel costs for you in the long run. With the price of gas these days every little bit counts!