Many people understand the need to reduce our dependence on unsustainable sources of energy. Often, their first impulse is to investigate installing a Renewable Energy (RE) system for their home or business. SASD recommends first use of energy audit and energy conservation measures.

Energy conservation and energy efficiency measures are available to everyone regardless of family income. Using these measures to reduce demand allows us to address the problems of increasing energy costs and climate change. Doing so also carries the added bonus of significantly reducing the cost of installing an RE system.

ENERGY CONSERVATION MEASURES

NO COST OPPORTUNITIES

INCANDESCENT BULB: Turn off whenever not in use
THERMOSTAT: Turn heat down several degrees
WASH ONLY FULL LOADS: Laundry and dishes
CLEAN LINT FROM DRYER FILTERS: Improve air flow
CLEAN REFRIGERATOR COILS: Better cooling
CLEAN HOME HEATING REGISTERS: Improve heat transfer
LOW POWER SETTINGS: Computers/monitors
PURCHASE “ENERGY STAR” APPLIANCES: 10% rebate
AUTOMOBILE TIRES: Maintain proper inflation
LAUNDRY AND DISHWASHING DETERGENTS: Formulated for cold water

LOW COST OPPORTUNITIES

INSULATE: Home heating hot water supply and return lines
INSULATE: Hot water tank if warm to the touch
INSTALL A PROGRAMMABLE THERMOSTAT: Save heating oil
INSTALL HOT WATER TANK TIMER: Reduce electricity
DRYING CLOTHES: Drying racks in cold weather; dry outdoors when warm
ELIMINATE PHANTOM LOADS: Power strips to turn off TV and Computers
SEAL CRACKS: Windows and doors
REPLACE: incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescents (CFLs)
CONSIDER HOME ENERGY AUDIT: Identify wasted energy