Post #11

Tip 10 – Change bulbs and use less of them

Blog post by Madison and Owen

Use energy-saving light bulbs that can last up to ten times longer than a normal bulb and use significantly less energy. A single 20 to 25 watt energy saving bulb provides as much light as a 100 watt ordinary bulb.

Install motion sensors on external lights.

Use only one bulb for light fittings with more than one light bulb or replace additional bulbs with a lower wattage version.

Recently, high powered LED bulbs have become more affordable.  A great place to buy them is Costco.  You can buy an LED which is equivalent to a 40 watt incandescent for about $7.  Our families have bought a bunch of LED bulbs and are now saving energy and the environment.

Post #10

Tip 9 – Turn off and dim Lights

Blog posting by Rabil and Matthew

Don't forget to flick the switch when you leave a room in your house. Remember this at school as well. Turn out or dim the lights in unused rooms. Work by daylight when possible by opening the blinds. A typical school building uses more energy for lighting than anything else.  We are having Earth Hour at our school tomorrow.  Consider taking part in earth Hour with your family on this Saturday from 8:30-9:30. Check out the website for more info: www.earthhour.org

Post #9

Tip 8 - Use Appliances Efficiently (washer and dryer)

Blog post by Olivia and Makenna S

Washing Machine

In your washing machine, set the appropriate water level for the size of the load, wash in cold water when possible.

Clothes Dryer

Clean the lint filter in the dryer after each use. Dry heavy and light fabrics separately and don't add wet items to a load that's already partly dry. Use the moisture sensor setting if you have one.  A clothesline is the most energy-efficient clothes dryer of all!  That may be a challenge for cold climates like Saskatchewan but it works great in the summer.  

 

 

Post #8

Tip 7 - Use Appliances Efficiently (fridges, ovens, and dishwashers)  

Blog post by Kaden and Kenton 

Fridge

Set your fridge temperature at 5 degrees Celsius; your freezer should be set about -15 degrees Celsius . Use the power-save switch if your fridge has one, and make sure the door seals tightly. You can check this by making sure that a dollar bill closed in between the door gaskets is difficult to pull out. If it slides easily between the gaskets, replace them.

Oven

Don't preheat or "peek" inside the oven more than necessary. Check the seal on the oven door, and use a microwave or toaster oven for cooking or reheating small items.

Dishwasher

Wash only full loads in your dishwasher, using short cycles for all but the dirtiest dishes. This saves water and the energy used to pump and heat it. Air-drying, if you have the time, can also reduce energy use.

Post #7

Tip 6 - Take Control of Temperature using shades, blinds, and curtains 

Blog post by Elly, Grace, and Meadow

Use sunlight wisely. During the colder months, leave shades and blinds open on sunny days, but close them at night to reduce the amount of heat lost through windows. Close shades and blinds during the summer or when the air conditioner is in use.