Most people use more energy than they realize. There are simple things that everyone can do to conserve energy. Many of these require no additional effort or cost, but can make a big difference in the amount of energy used each day.
Turning off lights when leaving a room is one of the easiest ways to conserve energy. This includes all lights, including lamps, overhead lights, and electronics. If an area is not going to be used for a while, it’s best to turn the lights off.
Another way to conserve energy is to unplug electronics when they’re not in use. Even when an appliance is turned off, it can still use energy if it’s plugged in. Unplugging electronics can also help prevent them from being damaged by power surges.
Heating and cooling costs can be reduced by making sure windows and doors are properly sealed. This includes weather-stripping around doors and caulking around windows. In the winter, open blinds and curtains during the day to let in natural sunlight. During the summer, close them to keep the heat out.
Appliances are another big energy user in most homes. When shopping for new appliances, look for the Energy Star label. These appliances use less energy than standard models. If possible, wait to run the dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer until you have a full load.
Finally, educate yourself and others about energy conservation. The more people that are aware of the importance of conserving energy, the more likely we are to make a difference.