Important Facts About Energy Conservation
Effects of Energy Conservation
Energy conservation is important. You’ve heard and probably read this all over the place, but maybe you haven’t really grasped how important it is. It may seem to be no more than a concept dreamed up by tree huggers with no direct impact on your life.
Or perhaps you have seen the light. You understand, a little, that energy conservation is more than just some wild idea to save the planet. It affects you, your family, and even your money. That’s right – energy conservation can save you money, and the lack of it can cost you quite a bit. Here are 7 facts about energy conservation that everyone should know.
4 Pounds of Bauxite Are Saved for Every Pound of Aluminum Recycled
Bauxite is the main ore used in aluminum, but in it’s natural state its not exactly can-friendly. The aluminum compounds in bauxite must be separated and purified, then mixed with other compounds to make metallic aluminum. This process wastes about 3/4 of the raw bauxite, ending in the ratio of four pounds bauxite to one pound aluminum. The process for recycling already made aluminum saves this amount of bauxite, and uses much less energy and resources.
Compact Fluorescent Bulbs Use 1/4 the Energy of Conventional Bulbs
This is one of the little known energy conservation facts that everyone ought to be aware of. About 80-90% of the energy used by regular light bulbs is lost as heat. Compact lights have a special design to prevent this, and use less energy overall while producing the same amount of light. They also last about 4 times longer. This conserves energy and saves you money in two ways!
Wasting Water Wastes Electricity.
Those 30 minute showers and that dishwasher are wasting electricity in more ways than one. Most of a city’s electricity use goes to supplying homes with water and cleaning it up once it’s used. Thousands of gallons a day get wasted, causing more electricty to be wasted.
Laptops Are Better Than Desktops
Laptops use about 90% less power than desktops. A laptop generally uses 15 to 25 watts of electricity compared to a desktop’s 150. If possible, use a your laptop for work and play, or at least upgrade your desktop to one with the Energy Start certification.
Ink jet printers also use much less energy than laser printers, so opt for one of those!
Wasted Energy Makes up About 30% of Your Bill
Heat that escapes through poor window seals, door cracks, and open fireplace dampers is still costing you money. To save up to 30% of your bill each month, seal up the areas where heat escapes. This means windows, the attic, and even heating ducts.
Some Water Heaters Are Pre-Set Too High
Some water heaters come from the manufacturer set to 140 degrees. This is becoming less and less common for newer models, but it is still possible, and it is likely on that older model you may have. To save on your bill and energy consumption, set the heater to 120 degrees. This also can help you and your family avoid scalding injuries from water which is far too hot. For more information on saving energy and money around your home, read this article.
The US Is the Largest Single Consumer of Energy
It may come as no surprise to you to know that the US is the country which uses the most energy, even though we do not have the largest population. However, it may come as a surprise to know that the second-largest use of the energy used up in the US is because of individual transportation. Running in close to this is residential sectors (I.E energy used in homes). This means that it really is up to individuals to begin changing the way they use energy at home and for transportation if there is to be any major change.
Taking a Step Forward
While it’s true that energy conservation can make an overall change for our world, it isn’t just about that. It is important to preserve the planet for future generations, yes. But to many people that is an intangible concept which is hard to grasp. Energy conservation, however, can make a big difference on your life and the entire world, today. That’s something everyone can take interest in.
The best thing is it’s very easy to get started saving energy and money today. Switch to more efficient light bulbs, turn off unused appliances and lights, stop wasting water, and recycle. Some may even choose to take it a step further and insulate their heating ducts and begin a local carpool. Knowing the facts about energy conservation is important only if you apply your knowledge. Wherever you choose to start, the most important thing is that you do.
More Resources
For more information and resources, see these helpful sites:
