Saving energy expenses at home

Published Oct. 19, 2011
By Airman 1st Class Jose L. Hernandez
Minot Air Force Base Public Affairs

MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- While the Air Force Energy Plan aims high at implementing energy saving practices, Airmen and their families can play a role in achieving savings at home as well.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, small changes in a household can go a long way when it comes to long-term financial savings. Some energy saving initiatives may even lead to a higher-value price on a home and a safer living environment.

Their statistics show that on average, a family spends approximately $1,900 on utility expenses each year. The costs of some utility bills are often taken for granted by many and not much is done about the possibility of curtailing those expenses.

Among one of the first actions families can take to reduce energy consumption is develop a mindset in which energy is taken into consideration in everything that is done, so as to accustom members on the necessity of energy in their lives.

When individuals can realize how much they rely on energy in their everyday lives, then it can be easier for everyone to begin focusing on ways to conserve energy.

The Department of Energy recommends the following energy saving practices to help reduce utility expenses:

· Unplug chargers when not charging. Almost every house is full of little plastic power supplies to charge cell phones, digital cameras, cordless tools and other personal gadgets. Keep them unplugged until needed.

· Use power strips to switch off televisions, home theater equipment, and stereos when not in use. Even when you think these products are off, together, their standby consumption can be equivalent to that of a 75 or 100 watt light bulb running continuously.

· Set your refrigerator temperature to 38° to 42°F. Freezer's should be set between zero and five degrees Fahrenheit. Use the power-save switch if your fridge has one, and make sure the door seals tightly.

· Clean lint filters in dryers after each use.

· Dry heavy and light fabrics separately and don't add wet items to a load that's already partly dry. If available, use the moisture sensor setting. When possible utilize a clothesline because it is the most energy-efficient clothes dryer.

· Air-dry dishes instead of using a dishwasher's drying cycle.

· Lower the thermostat water heater to 120°F.

· Take short showers instead of baths.

· Drive sensibly. Aggressive driving (speeding, rapid acceleration and braking) wastes gasoline.

· Use compact fluorescent light bulbs with the ENERGY STAR label. ENERGY STAR products meet strict efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency.

To learn more about U.S. Department of Energy programs in energy efficiency and renewable energy, visit the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy's web site at www.eere.energy.gov.