Eco-Solutions

Eco Tips to Help You Save Money, Energy and the Environment

Consolidate errands into one trip—grocery, dry cleaning, pharmacy—rather than individual trips.
Keep tires properly inflated; low pressure = low mileage.
Turn off your car if it will idle longer than 1 minute; it will use less gas to restart it.
Buy gasoline during the coolest part of the day; gasoline is denser at lower temps and you will get more volume when it is at its densest.
Obey the speed limit: traveling at 55 mph gives you 21% better mileage vs. 65 mph.^*
If you drive a standard transmission vehicle, change to a higher gear as soon as possible. Traveling in lower gear can consume 45% more fuel.^*
Keep your car tuned up to optimize gas mileage.
Be sure your gas cap is tightened securely. A loose cap can permit gas to evaporate.
Change your fuel filter and air filter.

^* Source: HowToAdvice.com

Install a programmable thermostat to automatically lower your home’s temperature at night and when you are at work.
Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs.
Turn off you computer monitor when not in use.
Run the dishwasher and clothes washer only with full loads.
Replace old appliances with Energy Star rated newer models.
Install insulating sheets in outlets on outside walls.
During summer, keep blinds or drapes closed on south facing windows to prevent solar gain.
During the heating season, keep blinds or drapes open on south facing windows to capture passive solar heat.
Leaving a fireplace damper open is equivalent to leaving a 48”-wide window open. Make sure it’s closed when not using the fireplace.

Limit high-cost, low-nutrient foods, such as sodas, candy, alcohol, and coffee for lower grocery bills and better health.
Buying meats in larger, family-size packages is cheaper per pound and can be divided into smaller amounts and frozen.
Buy cereals, grains, and even snacks in bulk.
Don’t throw out those leftovers! Combine them with a few fresh ingredients for something new.
Check the store’s sale circular and stock up on items when they’re on sale.
Buy store brands whenever possible. They often contain the exact same ingredients as leading brands at a much lower cost.
Make a list. You are much less likely to buy impulse items if they aren’t on the list.
Eat before you shop; hungry shoppers spend more.

The following local organizations also offer tips that can help you save money while you protect the environment: