Green Sanctuary Task Force, UUI

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Action Tips -- Home

Simple--and often inexpensive, reasonably priced or FREE--actions in the home can also help in the greening of America.

1. Set your hot water thermostat no higher than 120 degrees. For every 10 degrees lower, you save about 13% on your water heating energy bill.
2. Wrap your hot water heater in an insulating jacket, whether it is in the garage or inside the house.
3. Install a high-efficiency showerhead. This can save up to 50% of water heated.
4. Wash only full loads in your dishwasher.
5. Reduce paper use and save trees from being cut. Some ideas: Use both sides of paper before recycling; buy canvass bags and use them each time you go shopping; use cloth napkins instead of paper.
6. Use glass containers whenever possible. (Making aluminum requires enormous amounts of electricity). Always recycle.
7. When buying a new appliance, look for the Energy Star label.
8. Turn down your thermostat to your overnight temperature a half hour before you go to bed. You'll never notice the difference.
9. Turn down your thermostat to your overnight temperature whenever you leave your home.
10. Insulate! Caulking, weather stripping and adding insulation to your attic and walls are excellent ways to keep cold air from entering your home.
11. Turn off the lights. when you're not in a room.
12. Turn off your computer monitor if you're not using it for more than 5-10 minutes. It uses as much electricity as a 60-watt bulb. Turn off your computer completely if you won't be using it for a few hours or more.
13. If possible, buy "green" energy...energy from non-polluting sources of electricity.
14. Minimize or eliminate the use of chemical on your lawn.
15. Check your storm windows. Do they need repairing or replacing?
16. Install low-flush toilets.

Do you have other Action Tips you'd like to share? Tell any member of the UUI Green Sanctuary Task Force or post them directly in the Green Sanctuary Task Force Web Forum.