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Saving Energy Saves Some Green
Reduce the amount of energy we use and we will reduce the amount of pollution that’s created. Here are some tips.
 | Over time, our actions have taken a toll on the Environment. By taking steps to cut down our energy use, we can reduce air pollution and greenhouse gases that all add to climate change. Saving energy also means that we save money. |
There are a number of ways to use less energy. Here are some easy energy-saving tips to get you started at no cost:
- Turn off lights when you leave the room or don’t need them.
- Hang your laundry outside to dry.
- Wash clothes in cold water.
- Set your refrigerator to about 3˚C (37˚F) and the freezer to -18˚C (0˚F).
- Clean the refrigerator’s coils (at the back of the fridge) every three months.
- Cook with your microwave when you can.
- Close blinds and curtains during the hottest part of the day in the summer.
Think about all the money you could save if you did one or more of those energy-saving actions.
But don’t stop there!
The following websites have tips and tools that will get you on your way to saving energy (and money!):
- Powerwise: http://www.powerwise.ca/
- Every Kilowatt Counts: http://everykilowattcounts.ca
Remember, by reducing the amount of energy we use, we will reduce the amount of pollution that’s created and decrease the amount of damage that is done to our environment.
Following the tips in this article is just the start. With a little bit of thought, you and your family can think of more things that you can do to help the Earth and save you money.
ENERGY SAVING ACTION | ONE TIME COST | ANNUAL LONG TERM SAVINGS |
Install a low-flow shower head. | $5 to $20 | $40 to $70 |
Buy a power bar to turn off your computer and other electronics when not in use. | Up to $20 | $50 to $100 |
Install a programmable thermostat. Summer settings: 25˚C when you’re home and 28˚C when you’re out. Winter settings: 20˚C when you’re home and 18˚C when you’re sleeping or away. | $40 to $100 | $50 to $100 |
Apply caulking and weather stripping to doors and windows to seal drafts. | $50 to $100 | $100 or more |
| Total costs and savings | One time costs of$115 to $240 | Annual savings of$240 to $370(or more) |
KEY REFERENCES:
Ontario Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, 2008. Tips to Help You…Conserve Energy and Save Money. Retrieved April 1, 2009, from: http://www.mei.gov.on.ca/english/pdf/conservation/Conservation_Tips_Brochure.pdf
