How to Save Water, Electricity and Money

Pay attention and you can save money.

Going green does not have to be expensive. In some cases you can actually save some money. By making an effort to control what you can around your home, you can conserve natural resources and cut back on your electric and water bill. There are things that you can change every day that will make a difference to the Earth and your wallet.

Things You'll Need

• Television with timer
• DVR or Tivo
• Candles
• Dish drying rack
• Curtains or blinds

Instructions

1. 

   Why pay for it when you are not using it?

   Shut down your computer and your modem when you are done. Plug them into an outlet that has a switch. When you shut down your computer (instead of just logging off or closing your laptop) flip the switch and shut off your modem. It only takes a minute to turn on and you'll save about 8 hours of energy use at night. This goes for other appliances also; many draw electricity even when turned off.

2. 

   Lights out and television off at bedtime.

   Turn off your television when you go to bed. If you have a timer, then use it. You will sleep better and use less electricity.

3. 

   More time for the important things

   Do not turn on the television the minute you get home. Wait until a certain time or record the shows you want to see if you have a DVR. This makes for more efficient TV watching.

4. 

   Mother Nature is a free and natural resource.

   Turn the heat down in the winter. Keep your curtains open in the daytime to let the heat from the sun in, and close them at night. Put on a sweater or few extra blankets before you reach for the thermostat.

5. 

   Candles are also very relaxing.

   Light candles at night when it is cool. They will give benefits of warmth and light.

6. 

   The right curtains can help keep your home cool.

   Turn the air conditioner down in the summer. Invest in affordable, energy-efficient curtains. Close them during the day to block the sun and heat, and open the windows at night. It is a little more work than pushing a button, but well worth it.

7. 

   Air dry your dishes.

   Run the dishwasher on light wash. If you already rinse the dishes before they go into the dishwasher, then they do not need a heavy wash. Try it once and see if you can see any difference. Even better, hand wash your dishes and let them air dry.

8. 

   Try not to waste water you can use.

   Put a pitcher or bucket under the faucet in the shower while you are waiting for the water to heat up. Use this to water your plants.

9. 

   Save time in the shower.

   Wet your hair and put conditioner in your hair before you shower. This can save the recommended time to leave it in.

10. 

    Conserve water.

    Do not flush your toilet every time. This unorthodox step is recommended only if you have your own bathroom. Refrain from flushing only after you urinate.

Tips & Warnings

• Enough cannot be said for installing energy-efficient appliances. Take advantage of every option. If you do the research, use the right rebate, find free removal and take advantage of sales and coupons, you will find that Energy Star appliances can make a big difference and eventually pay for themselves.

References

• U.S. Department of Energy: Energy Savers
• Target: Energy-Efficient curtains
• Energy Star: Rebates