How Can People Conserve Energy?

Energy-efficient lightbulbs conserve energy.

Conserving energy saves money, and reduces the need for fossil fuels. You can save energy in your home by making choices that will reduce your electricity and fuel bills without sacrificing your comfort.

Light Bulbs

Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) last up to 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs, and use about 75 percent less energy. As of 2010, one CFL bulb can save you more than $40 in electricity costs over the bulb's lifetime. CFLs can also cut home cooling costs, because they produce about 75 percent less heat than incandescent bulbs.

Heating

A properly maintained heating system will reduce fuel consumption, so check the filters in your heating system every month. Insulate the walls, ceilings and floors to reduce heat loss. Use caulking and weatherstripping to fill cracks in the walls, floors, windows and doors.

Cooling

To keep your air conditioner running efficiently, check its filter every month, and replace it when it's dirty. Use an automatic timer to set the room temperature higher during the hours you are away, and to cool it before you return. Install ceiling fans to help circulate the air in your home, and reduce the use of the air conditioner. Ceiling fans use less electricity than air conditioners.

Appliances

Purchase energy-efficient appliances and use them responsibly. Washing a full load of clothes in cold water saves electricity, and works well provided you use a cold-water detergent. You can also save energy by rinsing dishes in cold water, or by running your dishwasher only when it's full, and letting the dishes air-dry.

References

• Northwest Arkansas Community College: How to Conserve Energy at Home
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Light Bulbs: Energy Star
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Save Energy at Home: Energy Star

Resources

• TVA Kids: How You Can Save Energy