Follow these tips for saving energy on Earth Day from DIVERSEcity’s Green Guide for Newcomers
A large amount of the carbon dioxide produced in the world comes from domestic energy use. To reduce our impact on the environment, we must think about the energy we use at home and about the lifestyle changes we can make. Small changes can make a big difference. Here are some easy things you can do to save energy this Earth Day, published in DIVERSEcity’s Green Guide for Newcomers.
Switch things off
Turn off and unplug lights, computers, games consoles, mobile phone chargers and more when not in use. Always switch off lights when you leave a room!
Heating efficiently
Turn your thermostat down. If you reduce your room temperature by one degree, you can cut your heating bills by up to 10 per cent. If you are feeling cold, then put on an extra sweater.
And reduce temperatures in any unused rooms to a minimum. If you have a programmable thermostat, you can set your heating and hot water to come on only when needed.
In winter or during cooler weather, open drapes and blinds during the day to allow sunlight to naturally heat your home, and close them at night to reduce the chill you may feel.
In summer or during warmer weather, close drapes or blinds to keep it cooler. Also, insulate your home well. You can use weather stripping or caulking around doors and windows and
fix draughts from doors, windows and more.
Use less water
Have a shower (try to stick to five minutes!) instead of a bath. It not only saves on water, but also on the energy used to heat the water. Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth, shaving, lathering your hands or washing your face. Make sure taps are fully turned off when not in use and fix leaking taps.
Install water-saving shower heads and low-flush or dual-flush toilets. When washing clothes or dishes, fill up the washing machine or dishwasher to the maximum; one full load uses less energy than two half loads.
Use energy-efficient products
Use energy-saving light bulbs. They last up to 10 times longer than ordinary bulbs. (DIVERSEcity made the switch to LED bulbs, which use up to 50 per cent less energy than fluorescent lighting!) And choose energy-efficient appliances including refrigerators, washer and dryers (look for the ENERGY STAR label). Consider installing a tankless water heater — they heat water on demand so no stored water needs to be continuously heated.
Ready for a bigger change? Reduce or eliminate fossil fuels from your home by replacing your furnace for a heat pump and your gas water heater with a heat pump water heater. You can also swap your gas stove for an induction stove and your gas fireplace with an electric one.
This article was written with the help of A Rocha Canada.