Top 10 Easy Ways to Conserve

Interested in saving energy but not sure where to start? Try this list of ten bright ideas for saving and conserving energy. Even small changes can make a big difference.

Any electronic item that has a clock, a light or feels warm when turned "off" could actually still be using 40 percent of its "on" power. Common sources of this phantom load include: VCRs, TVs, CD players, cell phone and battery chargers, microwave ovens and coffee makers. Consider plugging these items into a power strip so you can cut power to several units at once.

Every time you walk out of a room, turn off the lights, music, TV and other unused electronics. TVs alone account for 4 percent of the nation's annual residential electricity consumption, and plasma TVs can use as much electricity as a refrigerator in a year.

Conserve water and the energy used to treat, move and heat it by installing a low-flow shower head. Low-flow doesn't mean you have to sacrifice pressure. Thanks to smart engineering, manufacturers now make more satisfying low-flow shower heads.

Manual thermostat adjustments can waste a lot of energy. Programmable thermostats are easy to install and use, and they can pay for themselves with the energy they save. Look for models that let you set daytime, evening and overnight temperatures. For every eight hours that you roll back 1 degree F, you'll save 1 percent on your energy bill.

Central air conditioners (ACs) need tune ups every three years. Check with your local cooperative about maintenance programs available in your area. In the meantime, visually inspect your unit, hose it off regularly and clear away debris or overgrown shrubs to maximize performance. If your unit is more than 15 years old, then it may be time for a new one. Look for ACs with a SEER* rating of 13 or greater and arrange for proper installation to maximize energy efficiency.

Are you more likely to go to the dentist than to maintain your furnace? An annual inspection of your furnace will improve its efficiency while also assuring you of its ongoing safety. Between checkups, change dirty furnace filters monthly to prevent strain on the system.

Compact fluorescent lights (CFLs)** use 75 percent less energy than regular bulbs, last 10 times as long and generate 70 percent less heat. Today's CFLs deliver warm, inviting light and come in all shapes and sizes to match your existing fixtures - indoors and out.

Decorate with LED (Light Emitting Diodes) lights this holiday season and you'll use only 1 percent of the energy that was required for your old, standard string of bulbs. You'll find LED lights in a wide range of shapes and colors, and they'll last about 20 years.

Invite an energy assessor to evaluate the efficiency of your home. Services are offered by most energy companies as well as the Minnesota Building Performance Association and Community Action Partnerships. First, the assessor will evaluate your home's insulation then plug or caulk holes that may be allowing air to leak through windows, doors or outlets. Next, an inspection of heating and cooling equipment will help ensure its safety and energy efficiency.

When you buy new appliances and electronics, look for the ENERGY STAR logo. When you choose ENERGY STAR products, you'll save money by using less energy. Plus, check for rebates available from stores, manufacturers and even your local electric cooperative. Learn more at www.energystar.gov.

* The efficiency level of a central air conditioner is determined by its "seasonal energy efficiency ratio" (SEER).

** Because of the presence of mercury, CFLs must be recycled. In Minnesota, it is illegal to place them directly in the garbage.