The Palisadian-Post has partnered with locally based environmental organization Resilient Palisades to deliver readers a weekly “green tip.”
In 2018, less than 50% of California’s energy came from clean, renewable energy sources. Although we’re doing pretty well relative to the rest of the country (second only to Washington state), we still have a long way to reach sustainability.
Palisadians can do their part to lower California’s energy footprint. Here are five energy-saving tips to begin:
Switch out all your incandescent and halogen bulbs to LEDs. Lighting accounts for approximately 12% of home energy use. LEDs cost more upfront but are 75% more efficient and last 48 to 100 times longer than incandescents. Most incandescent fixtures accept LEDs. Visit our local Anawalt’s Palisades Hardware if you have any questions.
Lower the temperature. Set your thermostat to 68 degrees or lower. Approximately 3 to 5% more energy is used for every degree above 68°F. If it’s time for an upgrade, consider a programmable thermostat that will help reduce waste by following your routine.
Wrap and set your water heater. Insulate your water heater with a heater blanket to offset 1,000 pounds of carbon dioxide each year. And set it to 120°F for all your needs, including your dishwasher. You can buy heater blankets at Ace Hardware, Home Depot or online.
Alternatively, switch to a tankless water heater the next time you’re ready for an upgrade. Tankless water heaters can save up to a whopping 20% of a household’s annual water heating costs while reducing the need for thousands of gallons of dirty fuel.
Sign up for Green Power with LADWP. This program enables you to choose 100% renewable energy with 20% coming from new sources. Search “LADWP Green Power” to learn more.
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