4 ways to conserve energy and save money
Winter is coming, and now is a great time to prepare for the cold weather. Conserving energy in your living space and daily activities not only helps reduce carbon emissions but can also save you money. Whether you live on or off campus, here are a few tips to save money and energy this winter.ÌýÌý
1. Keep your space warm
As the temperatures cool down, you may want to turn your thermostats up. To help keep your living space warm and energy use low, make sure furniture, rugs and clothing are not blocking air ducts and heat vents.Ìý
If you live on campus, learn more about the (each hall is different). Depending on your hall, you may need to keep your windows closed during the winter months to avoid overloading the heating system. If you notice any heating issues in your room, be sure to .Ìý
If you live off campus, now is a great time to learn how your heating system works. Electric baseboard heat and forced air furnaces are the most common types of space heating in Boulder, but other systems are out there. Consider taking some maintenance steps to prepare for the colder season:
- Change your furnace filter and clean off radiators.
- Weatherize your windows with insulator film or thick curtains.
- Adjust your thermostat to a lower setting when you aren’t home.Ìý
2. Schedule an EcoVisit or talk to your EcoRep
The Environmental Center offers EcoVisits for students living off campus within the city of Boulder, as well as students living in Bear Creek Apartments and Graduate & Family Housing. EcoVisits are a great way to learn more about reducing your energy bill and conserving energy, and you’ll get an EcoKit with items to help you achieve your sustainability goals.ÌýÌý
If you live in the residence halls on campus, you can contact your EcoRep for information and resources on sustainable living.Ìý
3. Power off
Simple actions, such as turning off the lights when you leave the room and unplugging devices not in use or that are fully charged, can add up when it comes to saving money and energy. An easy way to cut down on your power use is by using a smart power strip. Be sure to turn off your computer and monitors rather than just letting them go to sleep. You can also invest in switching to LED lightbulbs, which are much more energy efficient.Ìý
4. Use sustainable transportationÌý
With miles of walkways and bike paths, convenient public transportation and electric charging stations, you can easily choose a sustainable way to get around campus and Boulder.ÌýÌý
If you have an Ikon Pass and plan to ski or snowboard this winter, check out the CU Ski Bus program for sustainable transportation to the mountains!Ìý
Learn more about energy conservationÌý
Review our Sustainable Buffs guide to learn more about how you can practice sustainability through energy conservation. There are many ways to incorporate energy-saving strategies and other sustainable actions into your daily routine. Small acts, like walking to nearby destinations instead of driving, can make a difference in climate justice.ÌýÌý
Here are a few more ways to get involved at the Environmental Center:
- Become a Sustainable Buff and pledge to make daily sustainable lifestyle choices.
- Join the .
- Check out the Sustainable Buffs Guide for more ideas on making sustainable choices in transportation, food, shopping and more.ÌýÌý
- Join upcoming , and check out student groups on .Ìý