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Is your home an energy hog?

By
Real Estate Agent with RE/MAX Ability Plus

 

 I just finished reading an article about surprising home energy zappers.  I thought it would be interesting to share with homeowners out there.  I always think of the energy hogs in my home being the larger appliances.  This list was an eye opener.  Here are a couple that I was surprised about

1.  Digital Picture Frames
2.  Mobile Phone Chargers
3.  Printers or Computer Speakers that are kept "on"
4.  Ceiling Fans kept running all day and night

  Obviously, this is not a secret and most of us are aware by now that leaving appliances plugged in when not in use continues to suck energy and cost us money. We are all buying energy efficient light bulbs and programmable thermostats. I don't know about you, but I forget about the little things like the phone charger for example, or the iPod speakers, or even the ceiling fans which I use a lot during spring. 

  If we know how much energy we are wasting in our homes, it could motivate many people to make changes to their habits.  Do you want to find out more about your "carbon footprint"?  That is the total set of greenhouse gases emissions that your family is causing.  This is your "ecological footprint" so to speak. 

   There are several websites you can go to in order to calculate your "carbon footprint" and to find out more ways to reduce the amounts of energy you use.  This both helps the environment and can save you money! 

www.carbonfootprint.com
www.Conservation.org/CarbonCalculator
www.CarbonCounter.org

www.nature.org/initiatives/climatechange/calculator/
www.epa.gov/climatechange.emissions/ind_calculator.html
www.timeforchange.org/what-is-a-carbon-footprint-definition

These are just a few that had some helpful tips and free calculators. 
 Very interesting and can make us more aware as we continue to look for ways to be more energy efficient!

Denise Wilson
CityWise Real Estate Service, LLC


 

Lori Bowers
La Quinta, CA
The Lori Bowers Group

wow! I didnt even think about it, but yes my phone charger is constantly plugged in as well as my printer left on the on position.  Makes me curious to see what else at home is sucking energy....

May 17, 2010 06:17 AM
Deborah Byron Leffler BzyBee Real Estate Lady!
Keller Williams Realty Boise - Nampa, ID

THese are good eye openers!  I hadn't heard of the printers as being energy suckers...I wonder if they are plugged in but in a energy saver mode if they qualify!?!?!

May 17, 2010 06:52 AM