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Smart Living

Energy-smart living means understanding how we use energy and making decisions that will help conserve and preserve resources. Being smart about your energy usage can also save money and make your home more comfortable. These smart choices can even help you conserve energy, protect the environment and save money at work and on the road! 

We're here to show you that you don't have to make drastic lifestyle changes. Small changes can yield big results if you pick your projects wisely. A great place to start is your living space – your room, your apartment, your home.

  • Tools & Calculators can help you calculate how your home uses energy, and how much energy and money you can save by making smart changes.
  • Your Home Take the “whole-house” approach to smart living. Get an energy audit, make changes that will impact your home’s comfort and energy use, and find “green” products.
  • Lawn & Garden Tips on using water and chemicals wisely and also how landscaping can help cut your energy bills!
  • Transportation Find ways to save at the pump, whether it’s the way you drive, taking care of your car, buying a new car, or even living without a car!
  • On the Job Learn how to save energy at work!
  • Smart Living Spotlights Seasonal stories to help you live a greener lifestyle



 


 

 

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Just Ask

Q - I’m thinking about buying some compact fluorescent light bulbs, but I’m concerned that they will have harsh light quality. Is this an issue?

Read the answer, see previous topics or just ask a question of your own.

 

Easy low-cost and no-cost ways to save energy!
From the U.S. Department of Energy: Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy site. 

  • Install a programmable thermostat to keep your house comfortably warm in the winter and comfortably cool in the summer.
  • Use compact fluorescent light bulbs with the ENERGY STAR® label.
  • Air dry dishes instead of using your dishwasher's drying cycle.
  • Turn off your computer and monitor when not in use.
  • Plug home electronics, such as TVs and DVD players, into power strips; turn the power strips off when the equipment is not in use (TVs and DVDs in standby mode still use several watts of power).
  • Lower the thermostat on your hot water heater to 120°F.
  • Take short showers instead of baths.
  • Wash only full loads of dishes and clothes.
  • Look for the ENERGY STAR label on home appliances and products. ENERGY STAR products meet strict efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency.
  • Visit www.energysavers.gov for more energy-saving ideas.