Green EnergyEnergy that fits in with the ecosystem

Cost reducing/ energy saving tips for new apartment?

I’m moving into a new apartment (first time out!!) and I need some tips for how to save money, and energy (trying to be a good Earth citizen.) Is it cheaper/ better to use a ceiling fan than an air conditioner? Do fluorescent light bulbs really work better?

How to Cut Your Energy Costs
Cutting back on your energy usage is not only good for your wallet but also good for the environment. Here are a few simple things that anyone can do to save hundreds of dollars a year! We’ve also got tips on how to keep your apartment comfy, all throughout the year, without a major energy bill.

Save Cash

Close vents you are not using. Whether it’s summer or winter, closing up vents in rooms that you don’t spend a lot of time in is a smart way to cut back on electric costs. Why heat or cool a room that no one is in? Keep the door to the room that you’re not heating or cooling closed. Whether it’s summer or winter, closing up vents in rooms that you don’t spend a lot of time in is a smart way to cut back on electric costs.

Turn off the lights and electronics when they are not being used. When you walk out of a room, turn off the light. Seriously, these costs do add up over time.

Use your range oven only when necessary. Try to prepare foods in a microwave or toaster oven instead, both use less energy.

Use nightlights in bathrooms and hallways. These lights save energy and prevent you from having to switch the lights on and off when you get up at night.

Stay Warm

Keep your shades up and blinds open. This will help you to make the most of solar energy. Studies also show that being exposed to sunlight can help improve your mood.

Use your ceiling fans in reverse. This draws warm air through your home.

Use compact fluorescent lighting. These bulbs use less than half the energy of incandescent light bulbs and last longer.

Use appliances wisely. Your dishwasher and washing machine use a good chunk of energy as well as water. Run them only when you have a full load.

Keep your landlord in check. Speak to your landlord or building manager to ensure that the furnace and air filter in your building are clean. A properly working furnace will cost less to run that a dirty or broken one.

Monitor your thermostat. Purchase a timer and keep your apartment cooler when you’re away or asleep. Some people actually sleep better when the room is cooler. The amount of money you spend on the timer will be saved in your first month’s energy bill.

Keep Cool

Change the filter in your air conditioner. You’ll save 5-15% if you keep your filter clean by changing it once a month.

Close the shades and blinds. Funny how that works, huh? We told you to open them in the winter. Get your tan outside and keep the sun out of your apartment.

Set the thermostat at 78, not 72, degrees Fahrenheit. You could save up to nearly 50% by making this adjustment.

Use fans wisely. Place them where they will circulate the most air and leave them on high so that they have enough power to push the air around.

Important information about energy saver light bulbs

Intermatic T101 24 Hour Dial Timer $40.99 This heavy duty mechanical time switch is designed for industrial, commercial and residential applications. The high horsepower rating is ideal for loads up to 40 amps resistive from 120-volts providing direct 24 hour time switch control of most loads. All Models Are Equipped With: One “ON” And One “OFF” Tripper 1 Circuit Standard On/Off Single Pole Single Throw 40 Amps, 4000 Watt Capacity, 120 Vo…

Earthmate EP4052AE 40-Watt Spiral CFL 2700K Bulb, 6 Pack $62.94 …

GE Profile Spacemaker Series : JVM1790SK 1.7 cu. ft. Over-the-Range Microwave Oven – Stainless Stee Cook using microwaves or convection in this stylish microwave oven that allows your food to be flavorful, beautifully browned and cooked quickly….

GE 13-Watt Energy SmartTM – 8 Pack – 60 watt replacement $8.49 GE 13-Watt Energy SmartTM – 8 Pack – 60 watt replacement…

Sunlight Desk Lamp Natural Full Spectrum Sun Light. Simulates Daylight. 150Watt Output uses 27 Watts. Touch On/Off Switch. $24.49 Best Gift For Youself or Loved Ones. Benefits of full spectrum Lighting: 1) Increases contrast in Reading. 2) Increase release of seratonin a hormone linked to an improved feeling of well being. 3) Increases vitamin D production in skin, which helps the body efficiently use calcium. 4) Render color much more accurately. 5) Reduce levels of melatonin, a harmone that promotes fatigue. About the Bulb…

Fulcrum 3 LED 3-Pack Tap Lights $5.85 Fulcrum 3 Pack Stick On Light – Fulcrum 30010-301….

Lightphoria 10,000 lux SAD Light Therapy Pad (Seasonal Affective Disorder) Sunlight Simulator. 2011 model (v2.1) $64.99 Bright light has been used for over a decade to alleviate symptoms associated with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), jetlag, shift work fatigue, insomnia, seasonal change and more. Light therapy offers a convenient and effective way of making up for the lack of light, without the need of medication. Lightphoria Light Therapy Lamp uses very bright lights up to 10,000 lux to simulate natural sunlig…