How to Conserve Electric Energy

Energy-efficient products include compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs).

Conserving electrical energy can maintain a level of comfort in the home or workplace with the bonus of lower energy bills. Some energy-saving products compare to an investment that pays for itself in the long run. From compact fluorescent bulbs and double-glazed windows to renewable energy technologies such as small solar electric systems, conserving electrical energy works to our advantage for both the environment and economy.

Things You'll Need

• Insulating jacket or blanket for water heater
• Bottom board
• Appliances with Energy Star qualifications

Instructions

Appliances

1. Select appliances that fulfill your minimum to average needs. For example, if your frozen food can fit in a refrigerator's freezer compartment, then a large-capacity, stand-alone freezer may consume too much energy and floor space.

2. Purchase Energy Star-qualified appliances such as refrigerators, washers, dryers and dishwashers.

3. Set the appliances to their energy-saving settings. Set refrigerators to 37 degrees Fahrenheit. Bypass options such as a dishwasher's drying cycle by turning off the machine to let the load air dry.

Electric Water Heater

1. Place an insulating jacket or blanket around the electric water heater.

2. Set a bottom board underneath the heater as insulation to reduce heat loss and save water heating energy.

3. Set the water heater's thermostat to 120 degrees Fahrenheit to reduce the risk of overheating the wiring.

Night Routine

1. Set the thermostat to 55 degrees Fahrenheit at night during winter in cold climates.

2. Turn off your home's computers, televisions, entertainment systems and power bars.

3. Unplug all battery chargers, such as those for cell phones and video game consoles.

4. Turn off all the lights.

Tips & Warnings

• Respect local laws and regulations regarding installation of renewable energy technologies such as small solar or wind electric systems.

References

• U.S. Department of Energy: Insulate Your Water Heater Tank for Energy Savings
• Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation: Understanding Window Terminology
• EcoMall: 20 Things You Can Do to Conserve Energy

Resources

• Health Canada: The Safety of Compact Fluorescent Lamps