Great Green Idea: Green Energy: Energy Conservation

Energy Conservation

Going a day without using energy seems next to impossible. According to the Environmental Protection Agency an average home spends about $1,900 each year for energy bills. Energy is used through the home for a variety of reasons. Appliances alone like the air conditioner and heater, water heater, lighting and small appliances, the refrigerator, oven and stove and clothes dryers, along with other things must be powered by electricity through energy. Although we need all these things each day, you can reduce consumption to conserve energy.

The Different Energy Sources

There are two types of energy sources: renewable and nonrenewable. A renewable source is any natural source that can be renewed or restored. Wind, water, sun, vegetation and internal heat are all renewable sources of energy. However, according to the EPA, only nine percent of the United States electricity is generated through renewable sources. In the case of nonrenewable sources, these are sources of energy that the environment cannot replenish once used. When it's gone, it's gone. Nonrenewable sources include fossil fuels like oil, gas and coal. The EPA estimates that the United States used about 71.5 percent of electricity in nonrenewable sources. Along with nonrenewable and renewable sources almost 20 percent of electricity in the United is generated through nuclear power plants.

Why Conserve Energy

According to the EPA energy must be conserved specifically because nonrenewable sources are very limited on the planet. EPA advises that we conserve these resources. One way to do this is to use renewable energy sources. Using more renewable energy sources not only cut back on the use of nonrenewable but also contribute to a cleaner, greener environment. Air and water is polluted when nonrenewable resources are used. Oil, coal and gas all release carbon dioxide into air and water supplies. Release of carbon dioxide can result in the global warming or the greenhouse effect. This effect may cause changes the weather and threatens human health and the environment alike. We can contribute to energy conservation by looking for ways to conserve energy. How can your contribute to energy conservation.

Ways to Conserve Energy

There are a few ways to conserve energy each day. Taking these steps can reduce the use of nonrenewable sources and encourage using more renewable sources. Replace those regular 60 watt bulbs with energy efficient ones. At first glance these bulbs may seem to cost more but they last longer and save on money and the use of nonrenewable resources. When not using appliances turn them off and unplug them. This twofold step can save money and energy over time. Only run the dishwasher cycle halfway through. Stop the dishwasher before it gets to the drying cycle and allow the dishes to air dry. Remember to change your air filters in the home. This will allow air to cycle properly throughout the home and reduce allergens from being released into the air. Follow air filter change guidelines according to your brand.