NDSU expert offers 10 ways for homeowners to save energy and money
Published January 27, 2016
A few small changes around the house can save homeowners money and contribute to a more energy-efficient community.
Malini Srivastava, who teaches in NDSU’s architecture program, and her eFargo team developed a list of 10 tips homeowners can use to save energy and money.
eFargo is a partnership with the city of Fargo and local utilities services that has the goal of greatly reducing energy consumption and emissions in the next two years. Sustained energy-efficiency means lower energy bills and lower environmental impact. The partnership is one example of how NDSU faculty members use their expertise to make life better.
“These are easy things that everyone can do at home very cost effectively and with very little effort,” said Srivastava, assistant professor of architecture and an eFargo team leader. “If everyone does just a little bit, it adds up to a lot for the community.”
NDSU faculty members have expertise that can make life better. Malini Srivastava, who teaches in NDSU’s architecture program, uses her knowledge to help Fargo reach its energy goals. She and her team developed a list of top 10 tips homeowners can use to save energy and money.
eFargo’s 10 tips for homeowner energy savings:
1. COOK WITH THE MICROWAVE
Annual savings: Up to $10 if you choose microwave instead of
conventional oven once a week.
2. USE SLEEP FEATURE OR SHUT DOWN COMPUTER REGULARLY
Annual savings: Up to $30.
3. AIR DRY DISHES AND WASH WITH FULL DISH LOADS
Annual savings: Up to $40.
4. WASH LAUNDRY WITH COLD WATER AND CLEAN DRYER LINT TRAP WITH EACH DRYER LOAD
Annual savings: Up to $74.
5. TURN OFF UNUSED LIGHTS AND REPLACE FIVE MOST USED BULBS WITH LED
Annual savings: Up to $75 with initial cost of $25.
6. INSTALL LOW-FLOW SHOWERHEAD
Annual savings: Up to $95 with initial cost of $10 to $40.
7. DIAL BACK THERMOSTAT TWO DEGREES AND EXPAND COMFORT ZONE
Annual savings: Up to $100.
8. HANG CLOTHES TO DRY INSTEAD OF USING A DRYER
Annual savings: Up to $100.
9. CHANGE HVAC FILTERS
Annual savings: Up to $198 with initial cost of $20 every three months.
10. USE AN ADVANCED POWER STRIP
Annual savings: Up to $200 with initial cost of $25.
(Energy savings are based on national averages. Your savings may vary.)
The tips are just a start. eFargo initiatives include an interactive, web-based energy-savings game for Fargo and West Fargo residents, and the development of educational curriculum for local schools.
The goal is a 5 percent reduction in energy use and local energy bills, and a 5 percent increase in local renewable energy.
eFargo recently was selected to participate in a two-year Georgetown University Energy Prize competition with a $5 million top prize for developing sustainable energy-saving innovations. The group is one of 50 semifinalists.
