| Many people are concerned about the state of | | | | On average compact fluorescent bulbs use about |
| the earth and how they can help the "green" | | | | 75% less energy, produce 75% less heat, and last |
| efforts. There are many things a single person | | | | about 10 times longer in comparison to standard |
| can do to contribute, but to start one does not | | | | bulbs. |
| have to go too far. Any person from teachers to | | | | CFLs can be used indoors or outdoors. They can |
| master electricians can provide insight regarding | | | | dramatically improve conservation outdoors |
| the green effort. This article addresses energy | | | | because most leave outdoor lighting on overnight |
| consumption tips a person can apply within their | | | | or most of the night via a timer. CFLs can be |
| homes. | | | | used in conjunction with protective fixtures to |
| Become aware | | | | shield extreme temperatures and inclement |
| Most may not realize how quickly the "little things" | | | | weather. |
| can add up in regards to energy consumption. For | | | | CFLs are used in conjunction with timers, |
| instance, how much power was used due to a | | | | dimmers, motion detectors, and automatic |
| room left lit throughout the entire workday? Are | | | | daylight shutoff devices to conserve energy. |
| appliances left plugged in or on standby using | | | | Make sure to check particular products are |
| more energy than previously thought? To start, | | | | compatible with using CFL bulbs. |
| one of the best tips to be provided is to become | | | | Home Appliances |
| aware of the little things that can make a big | | | | Home appliances can count for a good percentage |
| impact: | | | | of household's energy bill. Refrigerators, clothes |
| - Turn off lights whenever possible. Take | | | | washers and dryers, and dishwashers are big |
| advantage of sources of natural sunlight within the | | | | factors. |
| home. | | | | The American Council for an Energy-Efficient |
| - Unplug appliances when not in use. Not only does | | | | Economy lists the energy performance of |
| it save energy, but is also extra precautionary in | | | | top-rated energy- saving appliances on its web |
| regards to electrical fires. | | | | site: |
| - Take advantage of the weather. Many of us | | | | Be mindful of refrigerator temperatures. |
| get in the habit of keeping the home air and heat | | | | Recommended temperatures for refrigerators |
| units on regardless of outside weather | | | | ranges from 35 to 40 degrees F; and, freezer |
| temperatures. Open windows and doors | | | | temperatures can be set around 0 to 5 degrees |
| whenever possible to reduce energy consumption. | | | | F. |
| Compact Fluorescent Bulbs (CFLs) | | | | |