Adventures in Sustainable Living Podcast

Episode 134

35 Tips and Tricks to Save Electricity

Electricity or not? That is the question.  I lived without it for about 16 years at my off-grid cabin. Consequently  I know from personal experience that it is very possible to do so and at the same time be very comfortable. But I remember all too well just  how happy I was when my solar electric system went online. Although I cannot complain about how I lived before that, having electricity certainly was a game-changer for me.

But once I had electricity, I suddenly found myself becoming very conscious of ways to conserve what I was using. After all, the greenest energy is the energy you never use.

So stayed tuned to E134 which is called 35 Tips and Tricks to Save Electricity. 

Welcome back everyone to the Adventures in Sustainable Living Podcast. This is your host Patrick and this is E134 which is called 35 Tips and Tricks to Save Electricity. 

Now at first you might think that this is a boring topic. But as you will soon see, being more conservative about how much electricity you use has beneficial  effects that go far beyond your wallet. Obviously in this episode I am going to go over numerous tips on how to save electricity. This of course will save you money and it is those savings that are most likely the motivation for most people. However, the first thing I want to cover is why you really should do this. 

We waste electricity

The average person consumes far more energy than what is actually necessary to live a comfortable life. In my opinion we take that ease of availability for granted. We walk into our home and flip on the lights, turn on the TV, get on the internet, and cook a meal without any thought of where the energy actually comes from. 

The average American home consumes 886 kWh of electricity per month. That consumption rate goes up of course as the size of the home increases. A 2,000 square foot home uses 1, 325 kWh per month. A 3,000 square foot home sits at 1,840 kWh. A 4,000 square foot home uses 2,200 kWh per month. In fact in the United States we use 6 times more electricity per capita than any other country in the world. 

Yet I know from personal experience that it is more than possible to live on a lot less electricity. Since the entire homestead of run off of solar, we a very conscious of what we use. This is because it is quite possible for us to run out of electricity. This happens a couple of time every winter especially when it is cloudy for several days in a row and there is limited sun exposure on the solar panels.  

On average we use 35 kWh per month and we live well. That is about 95% less usage than what the average American home consumes. So, as I said, it is possible to live on far less. 

The reality is that electricity is a clean and relatively safe form of energy when it is in use. However it is the generation and transmission of electricity that affects the environment. Electric power systems consists of generation plants, transmission networks and distribution lines. Every one of these components have some sort of environmental impact at multiple stages. This includes development, construction, the actual generation of electricity, and finally decommission and disposal. In fact, all forms of electricity generation has some sort of environmental impact including solar and wind. However, coal fired plants are by far the worst. 

On the other hand, saving electricity not only saves your wallet but it saves the environment because it cuts down on pollution. Energy efficiency is about truly about getting the same job done but using less energy. Truly the greenest energy is the energy you never use.

What most people never realize is that seemingly minor changes produce dramatic results. The amount of reduced pollution due to something as simple as changing one incandescent light bulb for an efficient LED bulb is the equivalent of taking 670,000 vehicles off the road.  

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, residential and commercial electricity usage accounts for almost half of all of the energy consumption in the United States. Clearly energy efficiency is a critical part of slowing down climate change and protecting the environment. Being more efficient in your usage of electricity not only reduces the use of fossils fuels but also protects the environment. Remember, it is far easier to save electricity that it is to produce it. However, this easy concept is all too often completely overlooked. 

All that being said, let’s take a few minutes and discuss 35 ways to save electricity. 

35 Ways to Save Electricity 

1) Adjust your behavior

Changing your behavior in several ways has the greatest potential to save electricity. For example, heating and cooling expenses account for almost one half of a family’s monthly utility bill.  So, turn down the thermostat. Reduce your use of air conditioning in the summer and heating in the winter..  

2) Start with an energy audit

An energy audit is simply an assessment of your home energy consumption.  This audit will identify energy efficient improvements that save electricity. The auditor will look at the exterior, attic, doors, walls, water heater, appliances, furnaces, as well as many other things. The cost of such an audit will vary depending on who and how it is performed. Shop around for this service.  There are non-profit organizations, government agencies, as well as utility companies that may perform this service for free. 

3) Install a programable thermostat

These thermostats can be programmed to turn on and off during times that you are sleeping or away from home.  This greatly reduces unnecessary heating and cooling. Smart Thermostats can also be accessed remotely.. 

4) Cut out “phantom energy” usage

The so-called “phantom energy” refers to the electricity that is drawn by appliances that remained plugged in even when they are turned off and not in use.  Many types of electronics and office equipment continue use a certain amount of electricity regardless of being turned off.  This actually accounts for about 10% of your monthly utility bill. 

The solution to this is to unplug any appliance that is not in use. If several electronic devices are in close proximity, then use a power strip which can easily be turned off instead of unplugging each individual piece of equipment. Smart power strips are also available that will cut off the power to electronics when not in use.  

5) Use energy efficient light bulbs

The traditional incandescent light bulbs consume a lot of electricity. Furthermore, a lot of the energy produced is lost in the form of heat. There are several types of bulbs that use significantly less energy. Halogen bulbs, compact florescent lights (CFLs) and light emitting diodes (LEDs) consume 25% to 80% less energy and last 25 times longer compared to standard incandescent bulbs.  These bulbs will cost more money upfront.  However, most of them last for 25,000 hours, which is considerable longer than standard light bulbs. The long lifespan of these bulbs coupled with the energy savings makes these bulbs a much better choice. 

6) Use natural light

Whenever possible, open the blinds and curtains and take advantage of the natural light, which costs nothing.  If you have a lot of large windows and are concerned about the energy loss, simply use insulated blinds, shutters, etc. 

When I recently added the sunroom onto the south facing side of the cabin, I installed a double front door, two tall windows on each wall and two skylights. The end result is that during the day artificial light is completely unnecessary. I also installed insulated blinds which help keep the room much warmer during the colder part of the year.  

7) Use task specific lighting

Turn off over head lights and use desk top or work bench lights that have a lower wattage rating. 

8) Wash dishes by hand

Most of our major appliances consume a tremendous amount of energy.  Even with a busy schedule, you can plan ahead and take the time to hand wash your dishes and cut the use of the dishwasher.

9) Reduce the use of your stove

If you are using your stove top or oven, simple turn it off a few minutes before the food is completely cooked. The heat that is retained in the oven, the stovetop burners, as well as the cookware, will continue to cook the food for at least 15 minutes or more.  This is especially true if you use cookware that retains a lot of heat such as cast iron. 

10) Reduce the heat in your kitchen

On those host summer days, try cooking outdoors. Put something on the BBQ. This prevents over heating the kitchen and thus saves on cooling cost. 

11) Cover pots and pans when cooking

Keeping pots and pans covered retains heat inside the cooking containers.  Water boils faster and food heats are efficiently.  This means your cooking will be far more energy efficient.   

12) Wash only full loads of laundry. 

Appliances use a huge amount of energy. Save a little by washing only full loads of cloths.  

13) Wash clothes in cold water

Washing clothes in cold water will save on water heating costs. 

14) Dry clothes on the line

A clothes dryer uses between 1800 and 5000 watts.  It takes very little time to hang clothes out on the line to dry.  

15) Insulate electrical outlets

Electrical outlets and switches are a big are of energy loss that is easy to correct.  If you do not believe this, place your hand over one of your outlets on a windy day.  It is really inexpensive to purchase outlet insulators and install them behind the covers.  

16) Do some landscaping

Things heat up quickly with direct exposure to the sun. Do some landscaping to shade your home and your air conditioning unit. You will be surprised at just how much this helps. 

The house in South Carolina that I used to own is a perfect example of this concept. It was well shade on the East and West sides. This only time the house got direct sun was midday. Consequently my cooling costs were half that of my neighbors.

17) Reduce water heating expenses

There are three ways to do this: 1) Purchase an energy efficient water heater, 2) Add extra insulation to your present water heater to keep the internal temperature more constant, 3) Turn down the thermostat on your water heater. 

18) Install a tankless water heater

A tankless water heater is also known as an “on-demand” water heater.  There are both electric and gas models.  These units have built in sensors that detect water flow. When water starts to flow, the heating element turns on and produces hot water in a few seconds.  

19) Install storm doors

Storms doors can cost as much as $200 or more per door.  But they will go a long way toward providing better insulation to your home.  In most cases, energy efficient improvements to your home qualifies for tax credits. Such credits will help you to recover some of the cost. 

This is another thing that I did at the cabin. It took me a couple of hours to install the storm door but it made a huge difference. 

20) Use low flow shower heads

Traditional shower heads flow at a rate of 5 to 8 gallons per minute. Low flow shower heads flow at a rate of 1.6 to 2.5 gallons per minute. Using less water to take a shower means less water to heat.  These are very inexpensive to install, which makes this a great place to start saving energy. 

21) Purchase energy efficient appliances

Appliances are responsible for approximately 12% of household energy use.  When purchasing any appliance, there are two things to consider: initial purchase price and annual operating cost. As a general rule, an energy efficient appliance is going to cost more up front.  However, the operating cost for such appliances is as much as 25% less than a standard appliance.  

Look for the Energy Star label. This is an Environmental Protection Agency voluntary program that focuses on superior energy efficiency. Therefore, the Energy Star Label is a guarantee that the appliance will consume less electricity than other standard appliances.

22) Upgrade computers and electronics

Ditch the old desktop computer and go for a more energy efficient laptop.  Also, get rid of that old TV set and purchase an energy efficient upgrade.  

23) Install energy efficient windows  

Windows are a source of significant energy loss. Upgrade to double pane windows with Energy Star ratings. For colder regions, install interior or exterior shades to reduce heat loss. Interior insulated blinds are also a fantastic choice. For warmer regions, awnings and blinds can reduce excess heat gain through the windows.

Another option is to install low-E windows, aka low emissity windows. These windows have a microscopic coating that is transparent and reflects heat. This low-E coating means that these windows reflect exterior heat and retain interior heat.  Therefore, installation of such windows translates into energy savings.   

24) Schedule some disconnect time

Technology is becoming more and more a part of our lives.  Try turning off everything and enjoying some quiet time or just reading a book. 

25) Put on more clothes

Instead of turning up the heat, put on more clothes.  Find your best sweaters, hats and insulated underwear.  It will actually save you money. 

We use this trick all the time. Since the wood stove is our primary source of heat we often keep it a little cooler in the cabin and just wear more clothes. It saves on wood. 

26) Upgrade your HVAC system

Even if it means total replacement, upgrade your system to something that has an Energy Star rating. I had to do this once. It was an expensive upgrade.  However, it saved me a tremendous amount of money on a monthly basis. 

27) Properly insulate your home

When I purchased a home in South Carolina a number of years ago, I was surprised to find that the home had very little insulation.  I greatly improved my energy efficiency, and reduced my heating and cooling bills, by investing in a bit of insulation.  

28) Close your chimney flue when not in use

Whether you have a fireplace or a wood stove, warm air is going to escape and cold air is going to intrude. Remember to close the flue when not in use. 

29) Recharge with solar 

There are many devices that are easily recharged with a simple solar set up. Even if you know nothing about solar, there are numerous “plug and play” systems on the market these days that will easily charge smart phones, laptops, tablets, battery packs, as well as many other things.  Take advantage of these products, learn some of the basics of solar, and get free electricity.  It’s a fantastic way to live. 

30) Use outdoor solar lighting

Instead of leaving a flood light or porch light on all the time, install solar powered lighting.  These lights can be easily found online and installation is often as simple as placing a few screws. Since I live off the grid full time, I use a lot of solar powered lights as peripheral lighting. I installed solar powered motion sensor lights that are a great addition especially in the winter when the days are so short. 

31) Use fans

Fans simply circulate cooler air around the room. Consequently, by the nature of what they do, they use a lot less energy than turning up the HVAC system.  Just be sure to turn the fan off when you are not in the room. 

32) Read a book

How many people do you see everyday that spend their idle time staring at some sort of electronic device.  That device of course uses energy and then has to be recharged.  Instead of doing this, get in the habit of reading a book.  Go outside and read. Reading can provide hours of energy free entertainment.  

33) Plan your meals carefully

If you need to thaw food for a meal, plan ahead and take it out of the freezer the day before.  This will save you the energy needed to thaw food with the microwave. If food needs to be chopped, take all of the food out of the refrigerator at once.  All out, then all in reduces the number of times you open the door and loose energy.  

34) Schedule you own power outage

At some point in time, we have all experienced a power outage for at least several hours. During that time, we all experienced the joy of simply finding other things to do.  We had to be creative.  Take this to another level and schedule your own power outage.  Shut everything down for 4 to 6 hours, maybe longer, and see how you do.  It will take some time to adjust.  However, you will become accustomed to this and the next time the power goes out unexpectedly, you will be prepared.  Besides, the longer you can leave the power off the more energy you save.

35) Teach your children to save electricity

Children are far more observant than we give them credit for being.  They learn by example. Consequently, they learn by watching what we do. Provide a good example and consistently engage in energy saving habits and you will pass this along to the next generation.  Besides, if you teach them good habits, they will save you electricity and teach others to do the same.

Summary

I am sure there are numerous other ways to save electricity that I have not covered in this episode. But, I hope this quick over view has at least convinced you of the need to be more conservative. With the convenience and general reliability of our power grid it is easy to take electricity for granted and never even consider how much you are using much less where it comes from and how it is produced. 

Every single thing we do as humans as some sort of impact. And it is how we do things that is the major underlying cause of all of the environmental changes that we are seeing today. If you ever wondered just how you could do your part in reducing climate change, being much more conservative of your use of resources is a first good step. 

The ultimate in reducing your environmental impact of using electricity is of course to take yourself completely off the power grid, run your home completely off of solar and essentially have your own personal power plant. But truly I think that is too much to expect from everyone. However, it is not too high of an expectation to say simply live more conservatively. Not only will you work wonders for your wallet you will do wonders for the environment. 

Well folks I think that is about it for this week. I hope you have enjoyed this episode. And if you do enjoy my podcast this please take the time to leave me with a review and subscribe to the Adventures in Sustainable Living podcast as well as my companion blog Off Grid Living News. 

My final thought for this weeks episode is one of my favorite quotes. The only thing worse than running in the wrong direction is running in the wrong direction enthusiastically. So, I think that is what we do and how we live. We are so enthusiastic about living our lives we never stop to realize that we are running in the wrong direction. 

Think about that until next week when you can join me once again. Until then, this is your host Patrick signing off. Always remember to live sustainably because this is how we build a better future. 

Patrick