June flew by, and with it went the temperate weather that we always get here in Southern California. June Gloom is gone and in it’s place are temperatures well into the 80s and 90s. During the spring and fall months, we rarely use air conditioning. We simply open windows if it’s warm and ensure that the blinds are closed during the time when the sun’s heat is at it’s peak so that our bedrooms, particular those which are located upstairs, do not get too warm. But on days when the temperature outside reaches well into the 90’s, an open window just won’t suffice.
One of my first energy-saving tips is to invest in a programmable thermostat. You can save money and energy with this affordable, easy-to-install device. Simply keep or adjust the pre-programmed settings according to your weekday and weekend schedules. The basic principle of how a programmable thermostat works is that it will reduce heaing and cooling in your home when you don’t need it (i.e. when you are away, at night, etc.). You can read more about how a programmable thermostat works on the Energy Star website.
You may have heard some buzz about CFL’s or Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs. According to Energy Star, Americans could save enough energy to light 3 million homes for a year (about $600 million in energy costs, 9 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emisssions) if every person replaced just one light in their home with a light that’s been Energy Star rated. CFLs use about 75% less energy than standard bulbs, produce 75% less heat, and last 10 times as long.
My last tip is to invest in a low-flow shower head. With a conventional shower head made before 1992, it only takes 20 seconds to reach the one gallon mark (Energy Savers). Waterpik’s Eco-Flow Shower Head can reduce water consumption up to 28 percent. With 6 spray settings and a hand held-hose, I don’t even think about the fact that it’s a low-flow shower head (reviewed previously).Disclosure: I participate in the Walmart Moms program and am compensated for my time and honest opinions.
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Just bought a multi-pack of CFL’s with a sale and a coupon!