WINTER ENERGY ECONOMIZING

13 Creative Ways to Save Energy in the Winter
Andrea Contreras, December 5, 2010 (Project Management Training)

"The winter brings cold, short days, which means we use more energy…[H]ere are a few creative ways that will save energy in the winter…[1] Go solar with your outdoor holiday decorations…[S]tores like Sam’s and Cost-Co sell solar-powered outdoor Christmas decorations…[S]et them up outside in the yard…and let the sun do the rest…[The light isn’t as vivid] but it achieves a very similar effect without cutting into your utility bill…[2] DIY…[Add a thermal layer to windows…[with clear film] sold at any hardware store…[A]sk a sales associate for a quick overview or get online and pull up a video…It’s easier than it looks…and results in a warmer home…

"…[3] Make use of the sun…Opt for sheer drapes… or let in light by opening drapes…[4] Crank down the water heater…[It] is hardly noticeable…[but] you use less energy and will be satisfied with a warm bath or shower…[5] Use a weather strip for the bottom of doors…They are easy to apply… can significantly reduce the amount of cold air that comes in…"

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"…[6] Switch your light bulbs…to light bulbs with an Energy Star rating…[They may cost more] but they’ll last far longer and cost less to use…[T]here are numerous styles of compact fluorescent light bulbs for any light fixture…[7] Have a timer for holiday decorations and outdoor lights…[Have] outdoor lights to light the driveway or porch…on timers…[I]t prevents the lights from staying on all night and also ensures the areas are lit when it matters…Do the same with holiday decorations…

"…[8]Install a thermostat you can program…In the day when everyone is gone the house can stay cool and when just before it’s time for the kids to get home, you can set the heat to kick up…[9] Go LED with your Christmas lights…They use a whopping 90% less energy…and are just as festive. They can be purchased almost anywhere…but for the biggest selection hit up a chain hardware store…"

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"…[10] Turn the heat down when you’re partying…[M]ore bodies means more heat. There’s no reason to have the house the regular temperature when you have a dozen extra people…[11] Opt for rechargeable batteries for toys…[instead of] a cheap set that will burn out quickly and need to be recycled. Not all recycling centers are equipped for batteries… and you don’t want your old batteries to end up in a landfill…[T]hat’s a lot of batteries in the junk yard…

"…[12] Bake in batches…Your oven takes the same amount of energy to cook one baked good as it does an entire batch, so maximize your time and energy…Baked goods freeze well and can be defrosted…Do the same when you’re heating food up…[13] Unplug phantom electronics when heading out of town for the holidays…[They] eat up energy even when they aren’t being used. This includes DVD players, chargers, printers and TVs. Add it to your checklist of things to do before leaving the house…[M]ake everyone who lives in your house aware of the actions you’re taking…Even your teenagers just might be listening, causing them to be more aware of their energy consumption…"