Energy Tips

The following are tips from the Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative (a partnership between the State of Hawaii and the U.S. Department of Energy).

36 ways to save energy and money – right now!

 

In the Office

  1. Shut off the lights and appliances when you leave the room.
  2. Use task lighting and shut off general and overhead lighting.
  3. Change incandescent bulbs to compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs).
  4. If you are near a window, use natural daylight, not electric lighting.
  5. Use the ENERGY STAR settings in your computers, printers, copiers, and appliances to power down when idle. But remember to shut them off when you are finished using them and at the end of the day.
  6. Use a power strip to shut off computers, printers, speakers, and mobile phone chargers when not in use (phantom loads).
  7. Print and copy on both sides of the paper.
  8. If possible, lower air-conditioning use by raising the thermostat.
  9. Use fans in conjunction with less air-conditioning to keep cool.
  10. If you have a refrigerator, know what you want before opening the door.
  11. Shut the water off when washing your hands, brushing your teeth, etc.
  12. Use the stairs instead of the elevator.
  13. Recycle your bottles, cans, and paper.

 

At Home

  1. Shut off lights, appliances, TV, and stereo when you leave the room.
  2. Know what you want before opening the refrigerator door.
  3. Use a power strip to shut off computers, printers, routers, modems, and mobile phone and music player chargers when not in use (phantom loads).
  4. Change incandescent bulbs to CFLs.
  5. Hang clothes to dry with natural ventilation, not a clothes dryer.
  6. Run the dishwasher only when fully loaded. Avoid unnecessary prerinsing. Air-dry dishes.
  7. Use natural daylight, not electric lighting.
  8. Open the windows and use natural ventilation, not air-conditioning.
  9. Use fans instead of air-conditioning.
  10. Use ENERGY STAR settings for computers, printers, and appliances to power down when idle. Remember to shut them off when you are finished using them.
  11. Print and copy on both sides of the paper.
  12. Shut the water off when washing your hands, bathing, brushing your teeth, etc.
  13. Recycle your bottles, cans, and paper.

 

In the Car

  1. Plan your errands so you don’t waste gasoline driving back and forth.
  2. Keep your tires properly inflated.
  3. Do not let the vehicle idle for long periods.
  4. Accelerate slowly from a stop; do not speed.
  5. Do not drive with your windows down. To minimize drag, keep your windows closed within one inch of the top.
  6. Don’t use your car as storage – keep it as light as possible.
  7. Keep your engine properly tuned.
  8. Change the oil at least twice a year.
  9. Use an oil box for used oil.
  10. Better yet, don’t use the car – walk, bicycle, or use public transportation.

 

Actions That Will take Some Planning and/or Home Remodeling

  1. Install a solar water heater and save about $1,400 per year (Oahu family of four at 33 cents per kilowatt hour). Save even more on the Neighbor islands (higher electric rates).
  2. Insulate or install a radiant barrier in your home’s roof and walls to keep out the sun’s heat.
  3. Shade windows from direct sunlight or use window film that reduces ultraviolet and infrared radiation but still allows light to enter.
  4. Paint exterior and interior walls white.
  5. Use white or light-colored roofing tiles.
  6. Install a ridge vent  and vented eaves to cool the attic.
  7. Install a photovoltaic-powered attic fan.
  8. Install a solar light tube to light rooms with natural light.
  9. Install a venting skylight.
  10. Purchase ENERGY STAR appliances.
  11. Use low-flow shower heads and faucets.
  12. Use dual flush toilets.
  13. Fix any leaks in your plumbing.
  14. Landscape your yard with xeric plants, not grass.
  15. Replace a gasoline guzzler with a hybrid or other fuel efficient car.

 

Download the PDF handout of these tips instead!