Action plan to become more energy efficient:

• Use power strips as opposed to individual outlets where possible and make sure to turn off power strip when not in use.
• Invest in buying glasses, mugs, and plates instead of using plastic cups and paper plates.
• Add new insulation to prevent cold drafts and air leaks to keep warm air inside during the winter and cold air inside during the summer.
• Carpool to work when possible.
• Replace aluminum window frames with vinyl ones, which are more resistant to heat transfer.
• Use sunlight during the daytime instead of lightbulbs.
• Replace the leaky faucet in the downstairs bathroom.
• Defrost the freezer to decrease the amount of energy needed.
• Replace old appliances, which are less energy efficient than new ones.
      - Research which appliances are most energy efficient.
      - Get low-flow fixtures and appliances.
• Only do full loads of laundry and dishes.
• Keep water heater at 120 degrees - 140 degrees.
• When leaving for vacation, unplug all appliances.
• Use rechargable batteries.
• Remove name from mailing lists for reading materials I do not need and go paperless with bank statements.
• Use small toaster oven as opposed to a large conventional oven for smaller meals.
• Make big meals so that there are leftovers and use the microwave to heat leftovers up because reheating uses less energy than cooking the meal for the first time.
• Get higher efficiency furnace that will use less gas, be hotter, and have less carbon emissions.
• Change air filters in furnace so that it is easier for the air to circulate.
• Close heat vents in rooms I do not use frequently.
• Add a programmable thermostat so I can program the heat to shut off when I leave the house and turn on when I get home.
• Leave a water bucket outside t collect rain water and use the rain water to water plants.
• Switch from incandescent to flourescent lightbulbs.
• Use solar panels.
• Plant a tree outside in the front of the house where the house get the most intense sun during the summer to create a natural way to cool the house.
• Take advantage of tax incentives for energy efficient home improvements available through the federal government.
      - Allows for up to 30% of cost of home improvements up to a          
        maximum of $1,500.