Saving Electricity

There are ways of saving electricity without significantly changing our way of life.

The first area of energy drain is from the multitude of small electrical appliances plugged in all around our homes. We can unplug all of our small appliances when we are not using them. If the toaster oven is plugged into the receptacle, it is still drawing power, even if we are not using it.

We can equip our commonly used outlets with power strips. Plug appliances into the power strip and when they are not in use, turn off the power strip with one simple flick of the switch. A power strip costs, on average, $20. A small investment at the start, this energy friendly tool will save money in the long run. Plug the computer and accessories, i.e., printers, monitors, speakers and hard drives into a power strip. Turn the power strip off when the computer is not in use to save on the electricity bill. This has the added benefit of protecting equipment during a power surge. A computer is one of the top energy users among household appliances and, fortunately, can be turned off when not being used. Also note that older appliances, such as analog televisions and older refrigerators, tend to use more energy. Look for appliances with the energy star label, to help keep electrical costs down.

Compact Florescent and LED lighting can also be good for saving electricity

As you begin your foray into energy efficiency, consider bolder ways to save and change your lifestyle for the better. Solar heat collectors are some of the less expensive ways of collecting free energy from the sun. Buy a windmill, or build one yourself, to provide your home with free energy. See www.realgoods.com Solar power is another option to provide your home with free energy. Alternative Energy Store provides useful guidelines that can show you the right way to install the solar panels.

Saving electricity is not only valuable for our planet, but for your wallet too. During this economic down-turn consider including energy efficiency in your home. Start small by unplugging electronics that are not in use and build from there.

A significant way to save on electricity costs is to learn how to build a solar panel Go visit their site and learn how you can build your own solar panel, all by yourself! Another way to save is to visit Energy Saving Tips

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