Simple Ways to Conserve Engergy

The annual celebration of Earth day is always cause for heightened energy awareness, yet our energy and resource usage is something we need to be mindful of every day of the year. With a few simple changes to our daily routines, we can save money, help conserve, and even hopefully repair, the state of the environment. Here are some things to consider:

Install Ceiling Fans - in your own home or rental units, consider installing ceiling fans. For a very small investment and less electricity use, you can install fans and cut down on the amount of air conditioning needed in your living space. Often times just circulating the air will cool things down enough to be comfortable.

Bag It - Reduce the number of grocery bags used by reusing your bags from the last trip to the store, or invest in some durable reusable bags. The "investment" in reusable bags can be as little as $1 each. These bags usually have a large capacity, and much more comfortable handles than those plastic bags that cut into your hands while carrying them!

Hoof It - If you live in an area with some amenities within walking distance do your body, mind, wallet and environment a favor and take a walk. Walk to the local market, the library (a great way to recycle and cut down on expenses!), your friend's house for a visit.

Turn It Off - When not in use, or at the end of the day, turn off lights, appliances, and computers. When possible, unplug such items. Even when turned off, an appliance that is plugged in draws energy.

Hang It - Hang dry laundry when possible to cut down on electricity used for the dryer. Your clothes will be nice and fresh when air dried, and they'll last longer because they won't be exposed to the high heat of a dryer. If items like jeans or towels to have a softer texture than air drying provides, just pop it in the dryer for 5 minutes when almost dry.

With a little forethought, these small changes can make a big impact over time.