Going Green- 5 Tips to Save Money

By Rebekah Kogelschatz

• Change you high wattage bulbs to low watt bulbs.  They are a little costlier than a regular bulb but last longer, which means less cost and waste in the long run.  Begin changing the most frequently used light bulbs first and continue on through the home.  There are many styles and sizes available, so you can ultimately change the entire house.  If you buy one package a month, it will not be long until you convert all your bulbs.  Estimates on the savings run from $30 a year for one 4 pack. 

• Wrap your water heater and use a timer.  When you wrap your heater, you are helping to prevent excess heating from the water cooling down to the air temperature.  The water will stay hot longer in the heater and not require the electricity to reheat water that is not being used.  You can also add a timer onto your heater that will turn it off completely during times of the day when it is not needed, like the middle of the night or during the work day. 

• Unplug unused appliances and equipment.  Unplug anything that is a black box- chargers, television, or surge strips.  They draw power even if the item is not in use.  Make sure your VCR/DVD players are not on when you are not using them.  Turn off your wireless router.  All of these small things will add up to savings in the end.

• Walk, don’t drive.  If you live where walking is an option, then walk.  Not only will you save money but not having a gym membership, you will save money on gas.  If you do have to drive, take the least amount of trips and carpool when you can.  One person using one vehicle to go where many others are going is a waste!

• Use the microwave or a counter top oven.  Heating the oven, unless it is winter, can cause the air conditioner to run over time.  By microwaving, you are not heating the entire kitchen.  Counter top ovens cook efficiently and heat the house less.  If it is winter, use that oven and decrease your need for the heater.