Saving Energy
The book "Organic Living" is full of lists and here is one on saving
energy:
1. Heat the minimum amount of water
in pots.
2. Use a tea kettle to heat water and
not stove-top pans.
3. Use a toaster for bread and not an oven.
4. Avoid battery powered appliances.
5. Use a dynamo powered radio.
6. Use rechargeable batteries.
7. Save water with showers rather
than baths.
I could not relate to the above list, so here
is my list:
1. Transport and gas powered equipment are big
users of energy. Look at local storage to
minimize trips and reduce/eliminate the lawn.
2. Two big energy using appliances are hot water
heaters and refrigerators. Insulate both, put
the hot water on a timer, buy a smaller/efficient
refrigerator.
3. Appliances that have wake up mode (always on) are
now everywhere and have a big impact on energy
use. Put all appliances on terminal strips and
turn the strip off. Then go check the meter to
verify someone isn't using electricity. Todays
appliances are sneaky.
4. If a natural source of energy is available then
research options. Solar hot water is cost effective
for many homes. Wood heat can be very efficient in
forested areas. Ground heat is available just about
everywhere and mostly ignored.
5. And last but not least. Simple conservation can save
more energy than all the other techniques combined.
Wear warm clothes, walk, live close to your destination,
take control of todays technology and avoid media
addictions. Turn off the TV or put it on a schedule.
Think about what builds "contentment" and take control.
Learn to enjoy meal planning and avoid eating out or
pre-processed meals.
jeff
