
By changing my habits and using products that save energy, I can help to reduce the total amount of energy consumed. Steps like this can help me make a difference in our world.
Find Future Friendly products and tips below to help reduce the amount of energy you consume.
ENERGY TIP #1: When I wash my clothes in cold water I can save energy. Tide Coldwater detergent is specially formulated to provide brilliant clean by washing in cold water. And with Tide Coldwater I can save up to $9.00 on my energy bill with each bottle.
ENERGY TIP #2: I bought a high-efficiency washing machine that accommodates larger loads and saves me money on my utility bills. And I only use Tide HE in the machine. It's specially formulated to unlock the cleaning potential of high efficiency washers.
ENERGY TIP #3: I've replaced my old light bulbs with energy saving bulbs. They give me the same amount of light, but use less energy and last far longer than ordinary light bulbs
ENERGY TIP #4: As the days get chillier, I close my curtains at dusk to stop heat escaping through windows.
ENERGY TIP #5: As the days get hotter, I close my curtains at dawn to block out the sun and stop it from heating up my home.
ENERGY TIP #6: Half the time we spend in the shower is spent avoiding the water! So while I soap and lather, I turn off for big water and energy savings.
ENERGY TIP #7: My mobile phone only takes a couple of hours to charge, so I don't leave it plugged in overnight.
ENERGY TIP #8: I give my computer a good night's rest too, to save money and CO2.
ENERGY TIP #9: The screensaver on computers uses the same amount of power as when it's on and being used. So I switch my computer off if I'm away from it for a while.
ENERGY TIP #10: Turning your heating down before bedtime saves energy, and once you're tucked in you'll never notice the difference.
ENERGY TIP #11: Install shutters on the outside of your windows to block out the hot sun. Drapes on the inside are 90% less effective since the sun has already entered the space. Block it out BEFORE it gets in.
- Chuck from ManitobaENERGY TIP #12: Look for the ENERGY STAR symbol when buying major appliances.
- Chris from OntarioENERGY TIP #13: In the winter close the doors to rooms in the house that you're not using. This prevents heat from escaping to those rooms.
- Hannah from Nova ScotiaENERGY TIP #14: Use a capacitor bank, also known as a Power Saver, to reduce consumption by up to 30%.
- Sandy from OntarioENERGY TIP #15: Whenever possible use rechargeable batteries. I have a small child with lots of toys that require batteries. Thankfully, I was given a battery charger and rechargeable batteries. What a godsend!
- Karen from OntarioENERGY TIP #16: The Canadian Energy Efficiency Alliance recommends caulking cracks around windows and doors to ensure your home is as airtight as possible. This will help keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer while reducing your home's energy consumption.
ENERGY TIP #17: Are the bedrooms in your home upstairs?... If they are, the Canadian Energy Efficiency Alliance suggests keeping the doors closed and the windows covered on hot summer days - it will help keep cool air-conditioned air in the room. And keep the door to the basement closed too. Remember, cooler air falls to the lowest part of the house.
ENERGY TIP #18: The Canadian Energy Efficiency Alliance says use the right appliance for your needs... micro-wave ovens and your toaster oven may be all you need - and they use less energy.
ENERGY TIP #19: Think energy when you turn on your tap or step into the shower says the Canadian Energy Efficiency Alliance. Your city or municipality uses a tremendous amount of electricity to pump and treat the water... and it is reflected in your water bill or taxes. And don't forget to fix leaky toilets or taps. (especially if it's a hot water faucet... you're paying to heat the water too)... and never underestimate the savings low flow shower heads can have - that saves a lot of hot water.
ENERGY TIP #20: If it's a bright, sunny day... consider drying your clothes on a clothes line suggests the Canadian Energy Efficiency Alliance.
ENERGY TIP #21: The Canadian Energy Efficiency Alliance recommends changing your furnace filter monthly. A clean filter allows air to circulate much easier in your home... it will make you feel more comfortable and may prevent your family from adjusting the thermostat when you're not looking.
ENERGY TIP #22: Is there a "phantom" in your house? There probably is! According to the Canadian Energy Efficiency Alliance phantom load is the electricity used by all those appliances that are in 'stand-by' - just waiting for you to use them. Cordless phones, TVs, CD & DVD players, printers, computers, any appliance with a clock, adaptors used to charge your cell phone, even your door bell!... all of these items use a small amount of electricity... but the fact is it can add up to almost 10% of the average household bill. Consider using a power bar that will easily allow you to turn off some of these products when there not in use.
ENERGY TIP #23: Don't buy an old used refrigerator, even if it sounds like a good deal - it probably isn't. According to the Canadian Energy Efficiency Alliance older appliances are not as nearly as efficient as new ones. The savings you will realize in energy costs alone will help pay for itself. Remember the energy cost is a "second price tag".
ENERGY TIP #24: PITCH-IN CANADA suggests always washing a full load of dishes in the dishwasher and allow dishes to air-dry on the "energy saver" setting.
ENERGY TIP #25: PITCH-IN CANADA recommends installing motion sensors, timers, and dimmers on indoor and outdoor lights. That way lights only come on at the level you need, when you need them.