Saving Energy Ideas

There are many ways to save energy in day to day life that many people just overlook because they do not want to go out of their way to help the environment. Little things that everyone can do go a long way in saving a lot of energy. In addition, there are things the local, state, and federal government can do that would save even more energy.

At home, individuals can take shorter showers and turn the water off while brushing their teeth. They can wait until there is a full load in the washing machine and dish washer before running them. Homeowners with older homes can replace their toilets with newer low-flush versions that save over 3 gallons per flush. Also, homeowners should check their houses for water leaks because even a slow drip can waste a lot of water over time.

Saving gas and electricity at home can also be done by making small changes in your routine. Turning the thermostat a couple of degrees cooler in the winter and warmer in the summer will save a surprising amount of energy and will not make a noticeable difference in your home. Installing a programmable thermostat saves energy because temperature changes are made automatically through the day and at night without the -homeowner needing to remember. Replace lightbulbs with the newer energy efficient compact florescent bulbs which use 78% less electricity. Buying energy efficient appliances and insulating your home well also saves large amounts of electricity. Small habits you can form are turning off lights as you leave a room, unplugging appliances when you go on a trip, turning off your computer at night, and not using heat producing appliances until temperatures drop. Some energy saving is even fun! The new plasma, LCD TVs use less energy than the older models.

Recycling goes a long way in improving the environment in your area and all over. Recycling helps the environment by reducing waste and by saving the energy of producing new materials. Recycling is something that individuals and...