Ways to Save Energy Resources

Buy Energy Star

• Buying products with the "Energy Star" label saves on the inefficient use of energy. Energy Star-rated products meet strict energy-efficient standards set by the EPA--often using anywhere from around 10 to 50 percent less energy--while providing the features found in standard, nonenergy-saving models. For example, Energy Star-labeled computers use 70 percent less electricity than computers without the label, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Other Energy Star products include home appliances, computers and electronics, heating and cooling devices, lighting and plumbing fixtures.

Use Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs

• Switching from incandescent light bulbs to energy-efficient lighting saves both electricity consumption and money. Two basic types of energy-efficient lights exist: LEDs and compact fluorescent. Both models--those marked with Energy Star labels--use about 75 percent less energy than yellow or incandescent light bulbs. In addition, compact fluorescent lights last up to 10 times longer than incandescent while LED lights last about 25 times longer, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

Adjust Appliances

• Small adjustments to appliances can save on electricity and energy usage while cutting down on carbon dioxide emissions. Refrigerators account for about 20 percent of household electricity use; refrigerators should be set to 37 degrees Fahrenheit and freezers to 3 degrees. Dishwashers and clothes washing machines should be run with full loads only to avoid wasting water. Many dishwashers also have a drying cycle that can be turned off manually, which can save about 20 percent of the dishwasher's energy use. For a clothes washer, using warm and cold water settings instead of hot for most loads can save anywhere from 150 to 500 lbs. of carbon dioxide emissions.

Driving Habits

• Small changes to daily driving habits can help conserve energy. For example, two miles per gallon is saved by driving 55 instead of 65 miles per hour, according to the American Petroleum Institute. Likewise, two miles per gallon is saved--under some speeds and operating conditions--by turning off the car's air conditioner. Other steps for conserving energy include combining errands into one trip instead of many short ones, turning off the car engine instead of letting it idle, getting cars tuned regularly and keeping tires properly inflated.