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Save Gas, Save Money

Energy efficiency and conservation are essential elements of our energy future. To create a new energy outlook for tomorrow and ease the strain on your wallet today, we need to make changes now. With small projects around the house and a few adjustments to our habits, everybody can help keep down regional demand for natural gas. The savings can really add up.

By way of smart consumption and small tweaks to their older house over the last five years, Martin and Carolyn have worked to make their home more energy efficient.

Martin and Carolyn have decreased their natural gas consumption, and their gas bill, by 40%

Cutting down on natural gas consumption will help decrease the need for more gas sources and will help prove to NW Natural that customers are serious about conservation and efficiency.

Martin took the time to write a list of the things they’ve done to get to this 40% reduction benchmark.

Watch the video Martin and Carolyn made to see what they’ve done.

You too can use this great list to consume less, and save more. Whether a homeowner, or a renter, you’re bound to find a few things you can do this week in preparation for winter.

Projects around the house:

  1. Replace furnace filters regularly.
  2. Seal ducts
  3. Put extra insulation on your hot-water-heater
  4. Get a programmable thermostat, set it to 50 – 55 degrees when you are asleep or not home
  5. Install low-flow sink and shower heads
  6. Use weather-stripping around doors and windows
  7. Replace appliances with Energy Star models
  8. Caulk cracks around windows and doors

Best practices for a fun and energy-efficient life

  1. Only heat the room you are in. Roll up a towel under the door to keep heat in
  2. Take a shorter shower, or share a shower or a bath with a friend.
  3. Close windows in winter, remove window A/C unit
  4. Only use kitchen and bath exhaust fans as needed. Don’t leave them running.
  5. Close fireplace dampers, use open fireplaces sparingly
  6. If you live in a large apartment building, and its too hot, ask your landlord to turn down the heat. If your unit has its own thermostat, try turning it off – the heat from other units will still keep you warm.
  7. Wear wool; most wool can be laundered normally, but hang it on a rack or line to dry.
  8. Close off unused rooms, cover heat vents, hang blankets over windows
  9. Invite friends over! They can turn their heaters off at home and keep each other warm with body heat. It’s never cold at a party.
  10. Ride your bike. It feels cold at first, but you will be warmed up in no time.

For other tips and discussions on energy conservation in your home check out the following resources

ngm.nationalgeographic.com/2004/03/energy-conservation/miller-text
www.thegreenguide.com/home-garden/energy-saving