Reuse Your Dehumidifier's WaterI've always hated to throw away the water I accumulate daily in my dehumidifier. I water outdoor plants with it. I'm sure my neighbors think I have a strange watering can, but I think this is the best way to recycle this free water.
Use Warm Oven to Dry Pots and PansWhen you have used your oven for cooking or baking and have pots and pans that have to be hand washed, place them upside down on the rack in the warm oven to dry. Do not forget to remove them before you preheat the oven.
Repurpose Water From WasherLiving in a dry climate, I have found ways to recycle my water. It takes a lot of work, I'm not saying it's easy. Do you ever consider how much water your washer uses per load? Wash then rinse. With water rates increasing; I've found a way to use the water from my washer.
Toilet Paper Limit IndicatorToilet paper can easily go to waste, especially if you're using multiple-ply styles, and have people in the house who love to just pull and pull at the roll. We have young ones in the family who love to use our homemade indicator, which shows them where to stop pulling. You can use a simple piece of tape, or get creative with a design.
Saving Water at HomeWater, being such a valuable resource, should never be wasted. When running the faucet to get hot water, collect the water in a bucket or cut-up gallon milk bottle. We live in a small house and we can fill two, gallon milk jugs of water before the water is hot.
Turn Off Fans to Save on ElectricityAn energy tip. If you use fans, turn them off when you leave the room. Fans cool people, not air. This mistake I've been making all along is now corrected.
Saving Money on ElectricityI always try to save on electricity. I put items on power strips and unplug items I' am not using. A few years ago I bought a twin window fan. I liked it so much I bought two more. I got them for $4-7 at yard sales.
Reusing WaterReuse your water from the kitchen to water your garden after you're done boiling your vegetables, washing potatoes etc. You can also use your dish water if your soap is plant based.
Reduce Monthly Water Bill to $9.00Hey all. I don't have the option to save a lot on all my utilities, but I have learned to save a lot on my water.
Repurpose Waste WaterI live in the desert. Water is like gold, but is wasted more times than I care to mention. Here's some insight on how I "repurpose" water.
Conserving WaterInstead of letting your tap run for a cooler drink of water, save the water that runs as you wait for warmer or cooler water in a clean milk jug or pitcher (glass will keep it even colder). Put the jug into the fridge.
Conserving Water During A DroughtRight now my state is under a burn ban, and water restrictions are in place in most communities. Although we are in the rural area, and not under such a strict watering restriction like those in town are, we are feeling the effects of the drought.
Use Car Shades In Sunny WindowsI like looking outside my kitchen door/window, but I don't like the sun adding to the heat of my room in the summer. I found rear car shades that have suction cups on them. These are an inexpensive way to keep out the sun and still be able to see outside.
Using Fish Tank Water in the GardenMy husband loves his fish tanks and I love gardening. Between the two of us we use a lot of water. But he bought a fish tank vacuum to help him clean out the tanks and originally had it hooked up to the bathroom sink faucet.
Saving Money on ElectricityThis week I thought I would share some ideas on how our family has saved money on our electric/gas bill. We have found that this particular bill has been one of our easiest to control. There are a several different things you can do to keep this bill under control.
Water Conservation TipsAs we run the water to the correct temperature before showering, we gather the cold water in a bucket. We pour that bucket of water into our washing machine, ready to use for the next load of laundry.
Water Conservation for Tough Economic TimesEverything seems to just keep going up, up, up these days! To say things are tight around our house is a major understatement! So, I have decided to do a few short articles on the things our little family does to try to save money/keep costs down.
Tennis Balls in Dryer Reduce Drying TimeSave money on your utility bill by adding a couple of tennis balls to your dryer. It will reduce drying time down 25 to 50%.
Turn Off Video Games to Save EnergyVideo game consoles use a lot of energy, and they waste a lot of energy when not being used. You will save 75% of that energy, if you turn them off when they're not being used.
Saving Water is ImportantI lived where saving water was very important. The city had only one source of water. If the lake from which it came was low, no water. So yes, I learned of the water police; they watch, fine, and can even put a lien on your property.
Catch Potentially Wasted WaterKeep a bucket in your shower/bath tub and kitchen sink to catch the water you run until you get hot water.
Water Saving TipsI changed my washer to a front-loader; buying it when it was on sale. I am not only saving money on water and getting cleaner clothes, but I also got a rebate from my utility.
Save Air Conditioning Water For PlantsWe noticed that there were puddles outside the windows with these air conditioners. We gathered some old five gallon buckets, and placed them under the drips.
A Simple Way To Conserve WaterI used a pitcher to catch the water while I waited on it to change to hot water to use. I was wasting almost a gallon every time I was waiting on the water to get hot. Now I keep a pitcher nearby, and I save the water to use during the day.
Reclaim Water From Shower For GardenOne great way to save water is from your faucets. By keeping a big bucket handy you can catch enough to water quiet a few plants instead of letting it go down the drain. When on water restrictions, this really comes in handy.
Turn Off A/C At Night To Save ElectricityIf you live in the Northern/Midwest states and it's 70-75 degrees F outside at night, you can turn off your air conditioner at night. Your apartment/condo will stay cold until morning.
Reclaim Water From Defrosting FreezerWe have a small dorm size refrigerator that we use for extras like sodas, water, and party food. It is not frost free, so in the summer it frosts up easily. When I defrost it, I try to catch all the water that drips off then I remove the big pieces as they become loose.
Reuse Dehumidifier WaterI use the water from my dehumidifier to water my plants.
Reclaim Water Generated by A/C UnitA friend recently put me onto catching the water that my air conditioning unit produces. Living in Florida, I have been able to recycle at least two gallons of pure water daily.
Dehumidifier Water to Flush ToiletI use my dehumidifier water to flush the toilet. I was a little hesitant to use the water for my plants (although it may be completely fine). So, I decided every time I have a full bucket, I would bring it up from the basement and use it to flush!
Put Jar of Water in Toilet TankTo use less water and save money, I fill a empty, clean mayonnaise or pickle jar with water and leave the lid off the jar. I then flush the toilet and put the jar of water in the tank as it is refilling.
Tiny Changes To Save ElectricityI was getting annoyed with myself because I was wasting so much power boiling and reboiling my electric kettle. I kept forgetting to only heat as much water as I needed and left the coffee maker heating ring on all day.
Air Dry Dishes in Your DishwasherAfter unloading the dishwasher and before you load it with dirty dishes, use the empty racks to air dry all the dishes that require hand washing such as large pots, cookie sheets, wine glasses, etc.
Insulate Windows With Bubble-wrap Year RoundInstead of expensive window insulation kits that are hard to install and can be used only one year, try this: buy bubble wrap. Cut it to fit each window.
Put Timer on Water HeaterWhy heat your water for 24 hours? Just install a Hot water heater timer purchased from Lowes. Set the timer for 1 hour before rising in the morning.
Save Excess Water for HouseplantsWe have recently moved to Kentucky. The Fall has been very, very dry and our dishwasher requires that you run the tap until the water is hot. So, my husband purchased a terrific, barn red watering can me that I can use to "catch" the water from the tap until it runs hot.
Turn Hot Water Heater Off When LeavingIf you have an electric water heater, after taking your night-time showers or washing your dishes, whichever comes last, shut off your water heater. I flip the breaker that controls only the water heater. Turn it back on in the morning.
Use Dishwater in GardenI keep a large empty bucket by the floor near my kitchen sink. As I rinse off my dishes, I collect the water in a container in the sink. (I use an empty large sized yogurt container.) Then I pour the water I collect into the bucket until it is full.
Keep Your Freezer Full To Save On ElectricityHere is a way to be green and prepare for an emergency at the same time. I rinse out 2 liter soda and juice bottles and fill them 2/3 full with clean water. I then lay them almost on their sides (without the lids on tight), leaning against something, in our large freezer.
Cut Electricity Bill and Keep the ACWe live in South Florida, where AC is generally not an option, but a necessity. We're on the electric company's budget billing plan, but have slashed $100+ a month off compared to last year's bill - even with hotter temperatures this year.
Use Collected Water to Flush ToiletIf you have a faucet leak or leaky roof, collect the water in a bucket and pour it into your toilet. The force of the water being poured in will flush your toilet without using the water in the tank.
Trash Bin as Rain BarrelWith all the talk of saving water, I have not seen a suggestion to save rain water. Why let it run into the street? You can buy special rain water savers but why not make your own.
Lower Flow To Conserve WaterI never realized how important is was to conserve water until we had the drought a few years ago . I turned the water flow down on each faucet except the dishwasher and washing machine
Place Line Dried Clothes In The Dryer To Soften UpTo save on utilities and clothes softener, I line dry many clothes in the house then put them in the dryer on air fluff. It's amazing how soft they become.
Water Conservation TipsDuring the stormy season, keep barrels at the ends of the house for water run off. This can be used to water the garden, water the animals and other outside things.
Use Heat Pump to Power Water HeaterMy husband and I recycle and compost. We have some big concerns about filling up land fills and until someone starts an energy producing plant using the waste we produce, this is our way of trying to help.
Waterless Car Wash"Wash" your car during a water shortage by wiping it down with a soft cloth (microfiber works well), while there is dew on it in the morning. A lot of grime comes off with the moisture.
Use Timer on Bathroom LightWe live in a two story home and the kids always manage to leave the upstairs bathroom or hallway lights on. I don't notice it until after they have left for school.
Use Low Wattage LED Light in FridgeMy refrigerator is a few years old and uses a 15 watt appliance incandescent bulb. Within seconds of opening the door, the light bulb is incredibly hot.
Use Same Water for Cooking VegetablesThis past summer, mandatory water rationing was imposed on our community. I started cooking garden vegetables using the same water, one type of vegetable right after another. I'd scoop out the first ones, then cook a second batch using the same water.
Reuse Cooking Water In GardenBy steaming your veggies (and for those that still boil or microwave them), there are still a lot of minerals left in the water that we dispose of down the drain. I re-purpose this mineral rich water for my bedding plants!
Saving Water When ShoweringFor those who are annoyed with a shower that gives you no option for how much water comes out of it (only hot to cold), you can buy these toggle switches.
Send E-Cards Instead of Greeting CardsInstead of paper cards, send e-cards. Go to www.hallmark.com where you'll find several appropriate free cards. You can schedule them way ahead of time, too, and they'll be delivered on the appropriate date, worry free. E-cards are free, easy and "green".
Pull the Plug on Electrical CostsOne can never save enough electric. Yet, the growing concern over the cost of utilities coincides with the growing concern for the health of our planet. This enables a household to cut utility costs while "going green" in ways that are easier than ever before.
Recycling Water Around The HomeOur two favorite ways to conserve/recycle water is using plants and pet dishes. Drop an ice cube? Instead of throwing it in the sink to melt, put it in a pet's water dish. You pet will love having cold water for a change.
Save Electricity with Motion Detector Light SwitchesA good way to save on electric bills, especially when you have someone in the home who forgets to turn out the lights, is to install motion detector switches. These are great.
Winter Warmth TipsI have several things I do to keep myself and my pets warm in the winter without getting heating bills through the roof!
Use Timer Light Switches for Easily Forgotten LightsPurchase timer light switches and install in the bathrooms, kids rooms or any room were lights may be forgotten on. The timers automatically shut the lights off after 15 to 60 minutes.
Allow Your Dishwasher to Air DryTo save energy costs, I fire off that sucker just an hour before bed time, then when it's done washing, I crack it open and let it air dry. If you are picky, picky, this will not eliminate all of the water spots, but your dishes will be clean!
Saving Energy By Air Drying LaundryHang your wet laundry on a drying rack until it is about half or more than half dry and then finish it in the dryer. The machine will last longer and you will save tons of electricity.
Desert Gardening TipsI live in the desert Southwest and it was costing and arm and a leg to water my plants even though we have no lawn and plant desert adapted versions of plants.
Water Plants With Leftover IceWhen watering indoor plants, try using ice cubes instead of water. They melt slowly, letting the soil absorb it better. This may not work for all plants, test first.
Saving Water When Washing Your CarHere in Central Florida, we are currently under a "Level 4" watering ban which bans people from home car washing. We cleaned our 2006 Honda Accord using approx. 3/4 of a gallon of water, two old soft bath towels, and maybe 45 minutes of our time.
Check for Energy Draining Devices at NightCutting back on your electrical usage can be easy IF you know where to look. This exercise must be done after dark, with the lights off, if possible.
Plant Shade Trees to Conserve EnergyI have a large shade tree on the south side of my property that keeps the summer sun off of my mobile home. This shade tree makes such a big difference that I rarely need air conditioning. It's a large cedar, but any fast growing tree will work.
Looking At Everyday Household Energy UsageI am such a creature of habit that I often do not think of the things I do that use expensive energy and climate changing fuels.
Put a Brick in Your Toilet TankTo save water when flushing your toilet, remove the tank lid and put a brick into the tank. This replaces some of the water that would normally go down the drain. In time you will notice a slight reduction in your water bill depending on use.
Use an Indoor Clothes LineI live in Tennessee where TVA, our electric supplier, has raised our electric bills 30% in one month. I have started really trying to be more frugal. I purchased a indoor clothes line and strung it up in my basement.
Use Ceiling Fan Year RoundBy setting your room ceiling fan on its lowest setting and using year round for heat or air conditioner, you can help lower the cost of your electricity bill. Remember to reverse the switch on the ceiling fans adjustments.
Unplug It And Save On Electric BillsIn Florida, electric bills run high, particularly in the summer. I save on my electric bill in two ways:
A Gallon of Water ShowerHave you ever not had hot water one morning and wanted to take a shower? All you need to do is heat up a 1/2 gallon of water in a good sized pot or tea kettle.
Fill Watering Cans When Waiting for Hot WaterWe have an instant on demand water heater, so while waiting for the cold water to run out of the pipes, instead of just letting it run, I put my flower watering pots on the counter and fill them until the water gets hot.
Leave Shower Water in Tub to Harvest WarmthTo save on heating fuel in the winter, insert the drain plug in the tub when showering and leave it in afterward until the water is cool. It adds warmth as well as humidity to your home. It's such an easy thing to do!
Save Energy Using Night LightsI purchased white night lights that have an on/off switch from the dollar store, for all over our house. We find they put out plenty of light.
Turn Shower Off When LatheringGet wet first when showering, and then turn the shower off. Clean body all over, and turn the shower back on to rinse and remove soap. I use a lot less water this way.
Be Cautious Using Water from DehumidifiersThis is in regard to a tip I read several weeks ago. A reader said she uses the water from her dehumidifier for the birds. My dehumidifier has a WARNING: DO NOT DRINK THE WATER, IT MAY MAKE YOU ILL. I am sure the same would be for birds or any animals.
Use Bathwater for CleaningI take a warm bath every night and I hate wasting the water. I leave it in the tub and add bleach. Then I use this to clean bathroom floors, soak any plastic that has been discolored, freshen mops, sponges, even stained towels. I find I am getting a lot done with this new idea.
Use Unwanted Ice for HouseplantsIf you drop an ice cube on the floor, don't just toss it into the sink. Place it in a potted plant or your pet's water dish instead. Use the same technique for any leftover cubes in mealtime water glasses.
Get a Cold Drink Right After You Flush the ToiletIn this hot weather, do you hate wasting water by having to run it so long before it gets cold enough to drink?
Saving Electricity When Using Your DishwasherWhen washing your dishes in the dishwasher, set the control panels to use less water and less drying time. Using the most eco friendly settings your dishwasher may have.
Defrost Food in the RefrigeratorWhen defrosting any frozen item, I put the it in the fridge a few days before I will need it. I do this instead of using my microwave on defrost. This cools off the inside temperature of the fridge, and means less energy is used to run it.
Use Old Pantyhose to Keep Rain Barrel Water CleanI've discovered that when collecting rain in your rain barrel, you can put a leg from a pair of pantyhose over the end of your downspout. It keeps the water clean, especially if your gutters have any debris in them. I hold the pantyhose material on with an elastic band, which makes it easy to remove and rinse off when it gets dirty.
Turn Off Shower To Save WaterWhen I shower, I turn off the water while I lather up, shampoo my hair, or shave my legs. I'm amazed at the amount of water I save by only having the water on twice instead of running it the entire shower.
Electricity Savings 101There are more than a few ways to keep the electric meter from spinning at an alarming rate. Some require a little electrical inventory, such as turning off unused appliances or switching to Energy Star appliances. However, others take a bit more creativity and planning.
Saving Water from the Sink for PlantsHere in North Carolina we have been experiencing drought conditions and are being encouraged to be mindful of wasting water. Since I have many plants which often need to be watered, I have tried to think of ways to be able to water the plants while conserving water.
Rain Barrels for Practically FreeMake your own rain barrels with what you have, practically free. My husband asked around at local companies and came up with white plastic barrels. The rest he already had in his shop.
Change Your HVAC Filter MonthlyThe best thing you can do to reduce your cooling costs and protect your HVAC system is change your filter monthly. A dirty filter increases the energy needed to cool air, and it can damage equipment. Make it a point to change the filter when the month changes.
Earth Hour: Small Things Do Make A DifferenceJust recently Australia, not sure about the rest of the world, celebrated Earth Hour, when for one hour, lots of businesses and people turned off their lights.
Some Stores Banning Plastic BagsThis is about reusable shopping bags for males and females both. Many stores are banning plastic sacks - so that might be something to consider in the near future.
Set Your Dishwasher To Rinse With Cold WaterHere is how I use my 10-year-old-three-cycle dishwasher, so it doesn't "cook" the food in the plates. First, I must say that I never rinse any of my dishes; I put all of them right away in the dishwasher.
Open Bathroom Door to Clear Shower SteamIn colder climates, instead of using the exhaust fan to clear the steam after a shower, open your bathroom door. The rest of the house can benefit from the moisture and heat the steam, and you will not be not sucking heat out of your home via the fan.
Septic Tanks Need More WaterConserving water in the toilet tank (eg. filled water bottles inside the tank) is a wonderful idea IF you are not using a septic system. To reduce the amount of water going through the line is to just about guarantee yourself a clog.
Simple Ways to Conserve WaterWith the drought conditions in many parts of the country, begin to conserve water even if your state hasn't been affected. If it's yellow, let it mellow, bathroom-wise. Turn off the water while brushing. Use gray water for the lawn and plants.
Candlelight NightI was reading through advice about electrical power outages and what to do. Guess what, sometimes on purpose, we turn off all the electricity and do everything by candlelight, especially when the grandkids are here. It is a fun evening for everyone.
Save Lukewarm Water for Your PlantsWhile waiting for hot water from your sink to get hot, place a milk jug under the faucet to collect water. Use this water to water plants, pets, etc. You'll be surprised with how much water you've collected.
Center Prop for a Sagging ClotheslineTo create a clothesline prop pole, I found two old metal poles that were previously used for a canopy over an outside swing. The poles fit together perfectly.
Frugal Tips For Electric Bill SavingsI just wanted to share my energy savings tips! Our electric bill kwh hour jumped almost double so I had to come up with something to help. It all sort of played out slowly.
Saving On Electricity In The SummerWe live in Central Mississippi and the weather is hot everyday, between 95 and 100. We are trying to keep our air conditioning costs down for the summer and save money, so the ceiling fans and box fans are getting used a lot.
Water Only When You Need ItInstead of running the sprinklers on a timer, I only turn them on when needed. Been doing this for years. Since we have water restrictions in our city, we are limited to T and F.
Swap Out Incandescent Bulbs With Compact FluorescentSwapping 16 incandescent bulbs for compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFL) saves emissions equivalent to taking a car off the road for a year.
Reuse Kiddie Pool Water For PlantsMy daughter purchased a kiddie pool large enough to hold an adult sized raft. She sunbathes in the privacy of our yard (I already lectured her about sun damage) and it's less expensive than joining a country club.
Insulate Your Water HeaterThe water heater is the second biggest energy user in your home. Help it maintain the correct water temperature by adding extra insulation around the outside of the tank.
Turn Off Water While Washing DishesDon't wash dishes with the water running. If you leave the tap running, you'll use an average of 30 gallons of water to do dishes!
Buying Compact Fluorescent BulbsWhen buying Compact Fluorescent Bulbs, look for brands with the Energy Star label. Those are rated to last long and use less energy than "cheaper" bulbs without the logo.
Turn Off Water When Brushing TeethOn TV I saw some quick info. The one that impressed me the most was the fact that they said if you leave the water running when you brush your teeth, it wastes three gallons of water.
Solar Lights For Indoor LightingWhen I lived with two roommates, we had little extra spending money. We were always looking for ways to save a buck or two. Electricity was one area where we thought we had done enough, but we were wrong!
Use Wash Water To FlushHere's a tip to save money on water I bet you have never thought of. Keep a dish pan in your sink and after you use the loo, but before you flush, wash your hands in the sink, (over the dish pan) and use that water to flush with.
Watch Out For "Vampires" - Energy Eating AppliancesUnplug appliances that are "instant on" appliances, such as TV, phone charger, etc. when not in use. These are "vampire" appliances that have electric current going through them.
Earth Friendly LaundryI just read this on "Earth Easy", great tips:
Extra Spin Cycle Helps DryingI always run the extra spin cycle on my washing machine while I'm unloading the dryer. This helps get even more water out of your clothes before drying them.
Saving Money on LightingCFLs are the screw-in fluorescent lights. They can screw into a regular lightbulb base, and they work just like a fluorescent light.
Ways To Save On The Electric BillI was absolutely shocked at my electric bill this month, so I sat down and made a list of things I will do to see if I can get it down, this list is now posted on the refrigerator, so I can see it every day. . .
Energy Saving Window CoversEnergy Saving Window Covers. To save on high gas bills, I replaced the curtains on the Northwest side of my home with black 3 mil paper. The paper absorbs the heat from the sun and prevents the leaking of warm air inside to the outside. . .
Cutting Down Your Freezer's Energy ConsumptionIf you have a chest freezer, fill a few gallon containers with water and freeze them. Make space in your freezer and pack it to the capacity with the ice/the gallon container.
Ellen's Tips for Conserving WaterPracticing water conservation saves you money, protects the health of your family and reduces the risk of damaging your access to quality drinking water. Water conservation also prevents water pollution-which hurts the environment and ultimately costs money to remedy.
Extra BlanketsThis winter we have kept our house much cooler due to the high gas bills. We have used some extra blankets on the beds to keep warmer. The best time of year to buy these blankets is right after the Christmas season...
Turn the Temp Down on Your Hot Water HeaterTo help keep gas and electricity bills down, slow down your water when you take a shower. For some reason we think we need it on all the way.
Save Energy with Swimming Pool CoversYou can significantly reduce swimming pool heating costs by using a pool cover. Swimming pools lose energy in a variety of ways, but evaporation is by far the largest source of energy loss. Evaporating water requires tremendous amounts of energy.
Using Polar Fleece for CurtainsLast winter after being cold from our single pane sliding glass door and not having the money to replace it, we bought a large piece of polar fleece to cover the window.
Use Lids When CookingWhen cooking on the stove, put lids on your pans. The food will heat up much faster than if not using a lid. Thus, saving you money on your power bill.
Turn Off Electronic Devices That You Are Not UsingIn your office, while not using your equipment, keep these items turned off or in "sleep" mode, until ready to use and turn off immediately after each use.
Fix Leaky ToiletsA leaky toilet can waste 50 gallons or more per day. Sometimes leaks can be unnoticeable. To test to see your toilet is leaking, put drops of food coloring into the toilet tank. Wait 15 minutes and look in the bowl. If color has made it's way to the tank you have a leak. Try replacing the flush valve in the tank to correct the problem.
Use Toaster Oven For MealsTo save money on your power bill - use a toaster/convection oven to cook your meals and for your baking whenever possible. Mine will hold an 8x8 pan and has two racks.
Save on Electricity and Have FunTurn off the TV, computer and Xbox and pull out the board games for entertainment at least 2 times a week. Not only saves electricity but creates memorable experiences.
Energy Saving TipsTips to help you save on heating, appliances, water and electricity.
Dishwashing - Water Saving TipInstead of rinsing dishes under running water when dishwashing, fill a basin with rinse water and a small splash of vinegar (the vinegar neutralizes the dish detergent and leaves the glasses sparkling).
