smart ideas for home improvement, part ii

lighting & appliances

The second largest energy consumer in your home is lighting and appliances …  33% of your overall energy consumption.

older appliances

If you’ve had yours for more than 10 years, it is likely that it’s not as efficient as a newer one that’s Energy Star rated.  Energy Star rated appliances basically use much less energy than your older one, just read the yellow sticker and choose which one best suits you.  Bonus:  PG&E may get you a rebate!

change that bulb!

Did you know that the standard (incandescent) light bulb uses 2/3 more energy than a Compact Fluorescent Lamp (CFL)?  I know what you’re thinking … those fluorescent ones are dim and they buzz, right?  I saw 3 types the other day at Home Depot: Bright White, Daylight & Soft White.  Bonus:  they last 7 – 10 years and made of much less Mercury than before.  Disposing of them is similar to used batteries. Go to your local hardware store and try one!

off hours usage

Try to use appliances such as dishwasher, clothes washer/dryer at night (after 7pm) where energy is cheaper and overall usage is down.

Next week … Refrigerator