Conserving Electricity tips

We've become so dependent on electricity that it seems like we can't do without it. That doesn't mean that we can't use less of it. By conserving electricity, you will do the Earth and your electric bill a big favor. Here are a few ways to help you get started.



Use Natural Sunlight
Before people could use electricity, they relied on the sun for both its light and energy. You may have to rework your schedule a bit, but you can still get plenty of things done when you do everything you need to do during the daytime.

You don't have to use electricity for everything you do, either. Consider having dinner in the dark or by candlelight.

Unplug Appliances When not in Use
We're all so used to having our appliances plugged in that we don't think about how much electricity is being used when we leave our appliances or electronics plugged in when we're not using them. Just because something is switched off doesn't mean that it stops using power.

A few kilowatts here and there add up at the end of the month. Whether it's your laptop, video game console, or a lamp, unplug it if you're not using it. You may want to consider purchasing a surge protector so you can switch off all of your electronics at once when you're finished.

Save A/C for Nighttime
It gets pretty hot in the summertime, and it's very tempting to reach for the controls to the air conditioner. Try to avoid that and wait until night to use it. Use fans instead and stay downstairs (if you have a two-story home) to stay cool. You can always go to a public place that's always running their air conditioner.

Use Cold Water Whenever Possible
Turning on the hot water may be second nature for people, and that's understandable because we always need to wash our hands with hot water. If you're just rinsing something off or need to get water for your plants, try to stick to cold water instead. It takes electricity to heat that water.

Use Someone Else's Electricity
No, I don't mean siphon electricity from your neighbor. Go to a public place where several people are using electricity. A library or a recreation center is a good place to get things done without running up your electric bill.

Purchase Energy Efficient Appliances
You can make a long term investment by buying energy efficient appliances. Things like energy efficient light bulbs, refrigerators, computer monitors, and more are available that use less electricity. You'll save more money yearly with these purchases.