Guest Column

Earth-friendly steps can save you money as well

By RON RAE
Published January 2, 2008

Science has proved that global warming is a direct result of man's use of fossil fuels. For instance, transportation is a prime source of emitting greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, but even though we would all like to purchase a newer, more efficient, eco-friendly vehicle, the cost prohibits many of us from making such an investment.

As energy costs continue to rise, it creates multiple challenges to make ends meet, but certain steps can be taken to compensate for those increasing expenses while limiting the emissions that are choking Earth's life support systems. As I read and watch television about the ecology, I make mental note of steps where I can reduce my contributions to global warming and, at the same time, save some of my hard-earned money.

Government, corporate and even some residential buildings are taking progressive steps to conserve energy by promoting a greener environment. For individuals, a little creative thinking can make a difference for the cause. Good intentions aren't enough; it takes actions. And the beginning of a new year is a good time to commit to taking action.

-Room lighting can be adjusted easily. Three-way bulbs offer convenient flexibility, reserving the 120-watt switch for reading. Leaving a light burning in an unoccupied room or in a closet is extremely wasteful. I use night-lights to save electricity and my toes from being bruised by furniture. Even in the family room, dim lighting to supplement the beams emitted from the TV serve the need.

Overhead lighting on a ceiling fan can easily be put on a dimmer switch with the added benefit of lessening heat emission from the bulbs. Equipped with a remote control, it's a convenience that also demonstrates human superiority over mechanical devices.

-Ceiling fans cool a person, not a room. Unless you are in the room benefiting from the air movement, it is a waste of electricity to leave the fan on.

-Conserve outside too. Street lighting poorly illuminates my home so, for security reasons, I use 25-watt bulbs in coach lights. A light sensor regulates the periods of operation. Solar lighting is available to shed light along walkways. No wires, no electricity.

-The kitchen is a prime area to conserve. "A watched pot never boils" expresses the importance of putting a lid on that pot or pan. With newer cookware, glass lids can satisfy the need to witness the results of human ingenuity and prove that a watched pot boils just fine, preserving time, money and energy.

It also is important to make sure those pots and pans have a flat bottom, flush to the burner. Even a slight bulge makes the preparation and cooking time a longer process, wasting electricity. If it wobbles, it needs replacing.

I was surprised to read that washing dishes by hand typically uses 20 gallons of water versus 2 gallons with a dishwasher. I make it a point to shut the dishwasher off after the cleaning cycle and allow the dishes to air-dry. I don't feel this compromises the sanitation of the dishware.

Other kitchen appliances also can be used more efficiently. Once an oven is preheated, put it to use immediately and use a timer or meat thermometer. Use the oven light rather than opening the door to check the contents. Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed and find that snack or bottle of liquid quickly. Adjust the cooling settings to further limit the cost of electricity.

-Avoid partial loads in the washing machine. Get family members in the habit of making sure their laundry is consistently placed in the hamper. A dryer with a sensor can avoid the possibility of arbitrarily programming inappropriate time and temperature settings.

-Heating and air conditioning provide options to counter the cash flow to oil-producing countries. Adjusting vents in each room can distribute air flow more evenly. Closing air vents in rooms seldom occupied is another idea. You might adjust the thermostat to a cooler setting in the winter and a warmer setting in the summer. One degree can make a difference in your electric bill.

Most electric companies offer an inspection service at no charge to identify areas that could be improved to increase efficiency in the home. It is strongly recommended for older homes.

-Blackout drapes are one of the best purchases I've made for the home. They darken rooms as intended, but they also block out the heat of summer and the cool of winter, especially on windows facing east and west. I can't imagine what my electric bill would be without them, but I would surely pay additional dues to OPEC.

-Perhaps taking energy-saving steps within the home could become a family effort. Why not keep a monthly log of the electric bill and set aside a portion of the savings for a special occasion? Make the rules well known; any month that the expected savings aren't achieved, the same proportion is deducted from the money pot. Set goals and after sixmonths take the money and have a little fun. To build up the kitty, set up a penalty fund for anyone caught with repeat offenses. I'll bet younger family members would meet the challenge and make a game of it.

Although saving the almighty dollar may take precedence, the end result would be a charitable contribution to the health of our very own piece of rock in the vastness of the universe.

Long live planet Earth!

Ron Rae lives in Spring Hill. Guest columnists write their own views on subjects they choose, and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.

[Last modified January 1, 2008, 19:48:26]