Can you imagine your life without a microwave oven? In 1978, only 8% of households had a microwave. Today 83% have them! It is estimated that by 2020 our computers, printers and games will utilize 25% of electrical energy production. So, ho many “things” do you have that use electrical energy? How do you compare with others?
This activity will have you conduct an inventory of your electrical energy outlets and allow you to compare your inventory with others.
Your First Step
Download the Energy Counts Tally Sheet and take a walk around your residence and complete the inventory. Give each plugged in or turned on appliance or switch that’s on 1 point. PDF activity sheet
Improving Your Energy Tally
So, now it’s time to think about your use of electrical energy. What can you change to decrease your use of electrical energy? Strive to reduce your tally by 10-20 points this month.
Here are a few tips on how to cut down on your electrical use:
- Turn It Off! When no one is in a room, turn the lights off. When no one is listening to music, turn the stereo off. If no one is concentrating on the TV, turn it off!
- Make sure your computer is set to sleep when it’s not in use for an extended amount of time.
- Check to make sure that you unplug those kitchen appliances when they aren’t being used.
- Clean or replace air-conditioner and heat-pump filters.
- Check for the Energy Star settings on the big appliances and use them!
By keeping your energy count updated and by always doing these simple things, you can help reduce your personal energy usage. And if everyone cut down like this, it would make a big difference!
For more tips visit www.nativeenergy.com/more_you_can_do.html