The high cost of energy has moved well beyond the gas pump. The cost of natural gas, propane, residential heating oil and electricity are also up, further straining household budgets. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the typical family spends over $1,600 on annual utility bills, much of it on wasted energy. We’re not doing the planet any favors either. Generating the annual electricity needs of the average home spews more carbon dioxide into the air than two cars.
As nurses, we’re concerned about health and safety. Reducing energy consumption and our personal carbon footprint makes the world a healthier place. Follow the tips below to reduce your energy use, protect the environment and save some cash:
• Turn down your hot water heater from 140 to 120 degrees.
Annual savings = $60, CO2 reduction = 4.1 million tons
Save more: Wrap the water tank in an insulation blanket. Install low-flow shower heads and sink aerators. Wash clothes in cold water to save an additional $63 annually.
• Instead of using a dryer, dry half your laundry on a clothes rack or clothesline.
Annual savings = $45, CO2 reduction = 8.7 million tons
Save more: Set your dishwasher to air dry.
• Switch from 75-watt incandescent light bulbs to 19-watt compact fluorescents.
Annual savings = $68, CO2 reduction = 11.4 million tons
Save more: Plug lights and home electronics into power strips and turn off when not in use. Standby still uses power. Install motion detectors on outdoor lights.
• Raise/lower your thermostat one degree per season.
Annual savings = $55, CO2 reduction = 7.5 million tons
Save more: Open windows at night. Use fans to circulate air. Programmable thermostats decrease cooling/heating when you’re not home. Service furnace and A/C annually and replace filters monthly.
• Look for the Energy Star label when buying new appliances, lighting, windows and home electronics to trim 30% off your utility bills.
*Statistics courtesy of AARP Bulletin, with additional data from the following Web sites: U.S. Department of Energy, AEP Ohio, and Columbia Gas of Ohio
The following appeared in an issue of Maxim’s nursing eNewsletter, Nursing Now. To receive news in your e-mail inbox each month, sign up today.