Best of 2010 – #4: How to Save Energy in your Home

Entry #368, December 28, 2010

Best of 2010 – #4

“How do I Save Energy? It’s so Hot this Summer”

We continue with the Best of 2010 on Stagetecture. From December 27 – December 31st I am counting down the top 5 blog posts on Stagetecture. These are based on the posts that received the most views from you, my readers.

In the heat of the summer, the number one item on everyone’s mind is saving energy! This post came in #4 this year, when the entire world was trying to cool off from the heat AND save energy at the same time. Whether it is summer or winter, these same energy efficiency ideas can be helpful!

——————————————-

Original Entry #211, July 13, 2010

With record breaking heat in some areas of the United States, and just being darn hot everywhere – how can you even think about saving energy in your home? Low Impact Living has 8 Easy Ways to Save Energy and Money this Summer.

1.  Keep your home at an eco-conscious temperature.  78 degrees is plenty cool in the house.  Turn down the AC and get a programmable thermostat so you’re only cooling the house when you really need to.

2. Work with the sun to keep your house cool.  Close all shutters and blinds during the day to keep the sun out– then open windows at night to cool the house and feel the breeze (if you have any!).

3.  Let the air dry your dishes and clothes. The dryer and dish washer use a lot of energy– and the air does the drying job just as well.  Plus your clothes will last longer.  See some great clothes-drying racks here.

4.  Take shorter showers and do not take baths.  Hot water heating is one of the major uses of energy in any home.  Showers are the way to go– and keep ’em short. Baths use much more water and heat than do baths (unless you’re taking 30 minute showers!).

You can also look into solar hot water.

5. Ditch the beer fridge. It’s amazing how many homes have two refrigerators.  Please do not use more than one fridge.  And if you have an old model, get a newer Energy Star model.

6.  Use ceiling fans rather than A/C.  They are much more energy/-efficient and you can get very reasonably priced Energy Star models.

7.  Get solar screens for your windows. These screens cut 75% of the heat coming through your windows, but don’t impact your visibility. They are really great energy savers.  See solar screens here.

8.  Spend one night each week in candlelight. It’s romantic, fun and inspires new conversation. If you’ve got kids, how about turning off the TV one night and playing a board game by candlelight? Clue would be particularly spooky!

For more green living ideas on Stagetecture, click here.