After taking an assessment of my energy use... these are some of the actions I can take to better my use of energy or to reduce energy consumption/waste:
Turn down the fridge (I have two - that were set at the highest level, I have turned each one down - fridge and freezer- by one level. I will monitor to be sure the food is properly chilled before making any other changes) Both fridges are nearly "end of life" - I will research more energy efficient models when the time comes to replace them.
Washing machine - I pledge to use the hot water option as little as possible. Currently I use hot water on 1-2 loads per week...
Dishwasher - I always wait for the washer to be full before using, but I currently use the drying option - I will turn that off so that the dishes air dry
Hot water heater - we have already set the temperature at 120* (lower than the 140* it was set at when we moved in)
A/C - we currently set our temp at 77* ( i will try to handle 78*). We live in a warm climate, so only use heat briefly - generally it is set at 65* and no higher
Windows and doors - I will check the caulking and weatherstripping as I wash the windows - tis the season
Getting around - I live far (10-12 miles) from just about anything but a few neighbors, so walking or biking (except to visit a neighbor is difficult to impossible. But, since moving to this more remote area I have worked hard to be sure that I work to run all my errands in the most efficient manner. Generally I drive the car 2-4 days per week
Recycling - though it is not an option with waste pick up in my area, I am a faithful recycler and take the recyclables to the landfill monthly
Roof, house paint - we are about to replace our roof and paint our house - we have chosen light colors for both
