How to Save Energy: Green Solutions for Your Condo

Recently, many homes have embraced energy efficiency in a bid to save money as well as conserve energy and the environment. There is a lot of talk about how to save money and energy without spending a ton of money to begin with. There are the traditional methods of saving energy that work quite well; but remember small changes can have a big impact, so think outside of the box and try adjusting your daily routines to use less energy too.

Tried and True energy saving answers:

Many of today’s appliances offer some sort of energy efficient model. Do your research before committing to a purchase. Programmable appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines are great so you can schedule the wash to take place late at night when energy usage is down. High efficiency dishwashers and washing machines also have options to use less water and complete your cleaning in a shorter time frame. By saving energy, these appliances account to reduced energy bills. The results will be apparent on your next bill.

Another effective and trendy item for your condo is the programmable smart thermostat. There are many varieties on the market to choose from. One of the best features of the smart thermostat is the ability to access your condo temperature from your smart phone. You can turn down the air conditioning even if you already left for work. Sticking to a schedule with your thermostat is best. Schedule the air conditioning to be off when you know you will be out of the house everyday, and to turn on again only 20 minutes before you return home. Try and use ceiling fans and keep the windows open when there is a breeze.

The benefits of LED lightbulbs are plentiful. Pair your energy efficient light bulbs with dimmable or motion sensor lights to create an energy saving haven.

Think outside of the box:

Make your own composter! This may sound smelly and time consuming, but once you have your compost bin set up, it is very self-sufficient. To find out how to set up your balcony bin check out Tiny Living’s article Composting for Apartment Living  https://tinyliving.com/composting-for-apartment-living/. Here you will find all the steps required to get your organic waste bin off to a fresh start. You can add the composted materials to your household plants, balcony garden or you can ask to dump it in your community gardens. Food waste does not have to go in the garbage. You will be contributing to a greener planet and home.

Before dryers were invented, humans had to hang dry clothing regularly. This trend has made a big comeback in North America. A clothes dryer According to Vivint.Solar’s example, “using your clothes dryer consistently for one year will cost you just shy of $260 in electricity. Energy.gov has an energy calculator that you can use to find the energy use and cost of different appliances in your home.” If you want to save some real cash, consider hang drying your clothes. There are many fold-out stands that can be used indoors to dry clothing. Ensure you check with your property manage before you decide to hang some clothes on your balcony.

Daily Practices

• Use your microwave to cook small meals – it uses less energy than an oven.
• Turn the tap off when brushing your teeth.
• Make sure your refrigerator closes properly and turn down the temperature by a few degrees.
• Do not overstuff the freezer.
• Unplug small appliances when not in use, do not just turn them off. This includes your computer, tv, hair dryer, video game consoles and phone chargers. Even when not in use, electrical power is still flowing through the cord.
• Get outdoors instead of staying inside. If you’re not home, you can’t use it!