by Marie Devine

Created on: June 06, 2008   Last Updated: June 18, 2008

Electricity and gas in the home are relatively recent tools for the home. A good place to start to conserve energy and save money in your home is to look at how people lived without it. Mentally back yourself out of our culture and learn the tricks to keep your money in your pocket instead of in the utility company's pocket. It is more important than ever to conserve energy, not only for financial reasons, but for planet survival as well.

We have generally been advised to seal out outdoor air and use less electricity; turn the thermostat down two degrees in the winter to 68 degrees instead of 70; and we call that conservation. The reality is, when you leave winter and arrive at temperatures of 55 degrees, many go outside in short sleeves. There is something about the outdoor air that is refreshing and comforting in winter and summer; use it to refresh your home.

In the fall, winter, and spring, turn the heat to lowest setting at night (usually 55 degrees); if possible set it to turn on just before waking. The surge of warm air in the morning will feel warmer than if the heat had been on all night. When the house gets warm enough, turn the heat down low again. It is the continual on and off that creates the high costs.

When possible, use a portable heater or fan instead of heating or cooling the whole house with the thermostat. Use window covering to regulate the temperature in all seasons, keeping cold air out and letting the sun adjust your comfort. Use a sweater, shawl or lap blanket for a cozy warm feeling when you feel chilly.

In cooler days, bake and cook in the morning to warm the house while preparing a meal, making the energy do double duty.

Turn the water heater down considerably. It is unnecessary, dangerous and unwise to heat water hot enough to scald someone.

Use brighter lights only where you read or write; use lights only when you need them.

Do a full load of laundry only and use cold water when possible. Hang clothes in the sun for fresher, brighter clothes. Use thin and small towels to dry with not large ones. Many "luxury" items take a lot of extra energy and effort to clean. Vanity is costly.

Resist using an air conditioner; use window coverings in the hot part of the day to keep the heat out and open the windows in early morning, evening and night. Wear light, cotton clothing. When it is extremely hot, the most comfortable place to be is outside under a tree, chatting with family and friends. You can picnic out there, sew, or do little chores as you rest comfortably. Using energy wisely will often be like an extra paycheck. We can and we must use nature's benefits, save energy costs, and enjoy life more.

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