Add Energy Efficiency to Your List of New Year’s Resolutions
The new year isn’t too far away; have you started thinking about your resolutions yet? We all want to be the best versions of ourselves, however, change, while it holds a luster, isn’t easy to see through to the end. Many attempt their resolutions, but quickly feel discouraged. Whether you’re wanting to cut back on caffeine, read more books, exercise regularly, or learn to play an instrument, it’s important to remember that change requires discipline, which takes time to develop, not to mention change itself happens over time. So be patient with yourself.
This New Year’s, consider adding “be more energy efficient” to your list of resolutions. No matter your budget, we guarantee there is an energy-efficient solution for you! The best part is, that the equipment does most of the work for you. No need to feel discouraged. Simply making small changes, like taking quicker showers, turning the lights off when you’re not in the room, or switching to reusable grocery bags can go a long way.
Upgrade to Energy Star Appliances
Is your home is equipped with outdated appliances that lack efficiency? You may want to think about having them replaced! Should you decide to upgrade your appliances, such as your dishwasher, clothes washer and/or dryer, water heater, etc., it’s important to pay attention to two price tags. The first price tag states the cost of the appliance, and the second price tag is the cost of operation. The latter price tag is just as important as the first, so don’t overlook it! When you switch to an Energy Star appliance, you’re guaranteed savings and a lower cost on the second price tag.
Why Energy Star?
- An Energy Star clothes washer uses nearly 40 percent less energy than a conventional washer.
- If your current dishwasher was made before 1994, you’re paying an extra $35 a year on utility costs due to its inefficiency. It also wastes more than 10 gallons of water each cycle. An Energy Star dishwasher will use nearly 3,870 gallons less than its conventional counterpart during its lifetime.
- By switching to Energy Star appliances, you will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, water consumption, and fossil fuel use. Do your part by switching to Energy Star!
Commit to Using Less Water
Here in California, it’s no secret we’re experiencing a state-wide drought. While companies and governmental institutions are helping to assist during this season of uncertainty, it’s important that we all do our part. Water is an essential part of life; there’s no way we can get through life without it. Here are some ways you can cut back on water usage:
- Turn off the sink when brushing your teeth.
- Check your toilets for leaks. A leaky toilet will waste, on average, around 200 gallons of water per day.
- Inspect pipes and faucets for leaks. A small but consistent drip caused by a worn washer can waste 20 gallons of water per day.
- Take a shower instead of a bath, and make it brief.
- Install efficient plumbing fixtures to ensure you’re not wasting water where it could otherwise be saved.
Schedule an Energy Audit
During an energy audit, a certified professional will use advanced technology and software to inspect the ins and outs, as well as the nooks and crannies, of your home to pinpoint where your home lacks efficiency. By scheduling a home energy audit and making the necessary changes and/or improvements, you could save anywhere from five to 30 percent on your energy bill. The cost of an energy audit varies from city to city, however, there are cases in which local governments or utilities will subsidize them.