Saving Energy

Tips On Saving Energy And Reducing Your Monthly Utility Bill

(NC)—Canadians everywhere are concerned about the rising cost of energy. Though many are looking to cut this expense, they are also concerned about the effect making these changes will have on their lifestyle. According to Kathy Buckworth, mother of four and award winning writer, saving energy and reducing energy costs doesn’t have to be cumbersome – it can be as easy as making a few simple changes. Below, Buckworth provides tips on ways to save energy and money without changing your lifestyle.

1. Replace old appliances

You can reduce refrigerator energy use up to 40 per cent by replacing a 1993 or older unit with a new, energy–efficient model. When buying a refrigerator it is important to select the right size for your needs. A model that is too big wastes both money and energy.

2. Pick the right support products

Today, many companies are providing products that help Canadians use less energy to lessen their impact on the environment. When at the grocery store, look for products like those in P&G’s Future Friendly line–up that can help you reduce your impact on the environment while still using the products you know and trust. Chances are, you’re already using some of them.

3. Turn off the lights

Are you, or someone in your family, guilty of leaving the lights on? This is the easiest habit to fix – simply turn off the lights as you leave a room and you’ll ease your energy consumption. Try leaving post–its on your light switches for the first month to remind yourself and soon it will become second nature.

4. Replace your ancient bulbs

Incandescent light bulbs are not environmentally friendly, and they consume more energy. Replace any incandescent with florescent compact bulbs to see immediate results.

5. Invest in EnergyStar appliances

Greener technology is readily available and many of your favourite brands are selling state of the art appliances that help reduce water and energy use. When you’re looking for your next upgrade, choose appliances with the EnergyStar rating.

6. Wash in cold water

Your biggest savings can be found by simply using cold water for your laundry. Try using detergents specially designed to clean in cold water conditions, like Tide Coldwater, which provides a great clean without the heat.

7. Turn it off and save

When you go for a coffee break or leave the office for a short time – consider turning off the monitor. That alone will save 60% of the total energy used by the computer.

8. Enjoy the fresh air

Try opening your east and south facing windows during the day instead of blasting the air conditioning. And for the days where you’ll be using your air conditioning, use a programmable thermostat that can automatically adjust the temperature setting for those times you know you’ll be out. By slightly adjusting the temperature, you can experience significant savings on your monthly energy bill.

More information on the simple steps you can take to help save energy can be found online at www.futurefriendlybrands.ca.

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