Climate Change

Reduce Carbon Footprint By Saving Home Energy

BOSTON (WBZ) ― One of the toughest parts of the family budget these days is dealing with the soaring cost of energy.

When John and Kate Saragosa of Melrose see their utility bills, they wonder why it always costs so much. They are already using an energy efficient washing machine and are taking other conservation measures around their house.

They agreed to meet with Steve Long of the Nature Conservancy to find out what more they can do to save money and help the environment at the same time. Long was pleased to see that they already have a programmable thermostat. He said that could save 20 percent on their heating bill. To save more, he said they should insulate the pipes coming off the furnace.

"You can save about 40 percent on your heating bill if your furnace runs through an area (of the house) that you don't use in terms of cost savings," Long said. "For gas, that would be about $320 a year that you'd save."

Despite conservation efforts and more energy efficient appliances, the use of electricity continues to grow. It's up 11 percent per household since 1993. One of the big culprits is something called "Energy Vampires". These are appliances like TVs, computers, and phone chargers that still draw power even when they are turned off.

Steve suggested that the Saragosas get a power strip so they can easily stem the flow of power. He said that could cut 10 percent of their electricity usage.

Another way to cut electricity usage is by switching over to compact fluorescent light bulbs. Steve said that a homeowner could save more than $25 over the lifetime of each bulb. In addition, if a consumer replaced 10 light bulbs, that would also reduce carbon emissions by 1,000 pounds.

There are also ways to cut down on gasoline. For example, if you drive 65 mph instead of 75 mph, Steve said mileage would improve by 15 percent. Keep tires properly inflated can save a driver up to $37 a year in fuel costs. An electric mower is also cheaper to run than a gas mower.

Steve said that a family could save up to $700 a year on energy costs by making these types of changes. He added that none requires a drastic change in lifestyle. The Saragosas thought it all sounded doable to them.

 Calculate your carbon footprint

 Visit Consumer Reports Greener Choices Global Warming Solutions Center for information on carbon reduction and cost-savings benefits of activites around the home.

 The American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy provides detailed information on home energy practices, and includes decision-making tools to evaluate cost-benefits of activities and whether replacing products makes sense.

 The Mass Climate Action Network provides resources for homeowners and municipalities interested in reducing their carbon footprint

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