Green Technology

It is amazing that there are so many energy using  devices in our homes.  What many fail to realize is that some devices, like TVs, and PCs may still be drawing power when "turned off".

You can save energy by changing the type of appliance - if old it may be worth upgrading to an energy efficient (Energy Star) model.

Sometimes you just need to "turn if off".  Sometimes you can made simple substitutions like CFL for incandescent bulbs.

Read on for the 5 Big Energy Hogs in your home ... and how to ZAP them !

" ...  Turn down your thermostat to 68 or 69 degrees in fall and winter, and to 76 in the summer ... Heating and cooling are the top uses of energy ... consider upgrading ... to Energy Star ..."

" ... for some homes, small appliances are the second biggest use of energy ... consider turning off your TV ... or ... put your electronics on a SmartStrip to prevent them from creating “phantom loads,” which draw small amounts of power ... even when items are turned off."

" ... refrigerator runs constantly. It can pay off to recycle your current model and buy a new EnergyStar rated model."

" ... likely have an inefficient hot water tank  ... tankless water heater ... save energy and money by not keeping water hot 24/7. Rather ... heat your water when you demand ... make sure your tank heater and the pipes supplying the water to it are insulated."

" ... swap out the incandescent bulbs in the most used areas of your home ... replace them with CFLs. Here’s a trick you may not have heard of for CFLs: once you’ve installed the fluorescent bulb, turn on the light and leave it on for at least 15 minutes. Doing so “burns in” the lamp, which improves its function, and its lifespan. ... dispose of them properly when they burn out in 7 years!"

Via:  SustainLane  LINK