Celebrate the Season and Save on Energy

Even in Florida, it can get cold at night. Some years ago, I bought woolies to wear so I could turn the heat down and save on energy. You may not want to go quite that far, but here are some tips on how to save energy during the winter months based on information from the University of Florida IFAS Extension:

• Contact Duke Energy for a Home Energy Check.
• Check for air leaks around the windows, doors, and chimneys, and seal with caulking or weather stripping.
• Use passive solar energy by opening curtains on southern windows during the day and closing curtains at night. Consider installing insulating drapes.
• Cover the insides of windows with clear plastic sheets or film.
• Lower your thermostat to 68 degrees or whatever temperature is comfortable (a simple measure that has worked wonders for my electric bill).
• Set your thermostat to change to a lower temperature during specific hours (such as when you are working or sleeping) with a programmable thermostat. 

Recently our local Pinellas County Extension hosted a home energy symposium focused on saving energy and water. You can watch videos from the symposium here. 

The University of Florida IFAS Extension has also provided tips on saving energy (and money) while celebrating the holidays: 

• Save on gas by carpooling to special events, parties, and shopping trips.
• Use LED holiday lights, and use fewer strands to save energy.
• Gather natural greenery, fruits, and vegetables to make decorations.
• Recycle gift paper or use holiday tins and dish towels to cover the present – these can be used by the recipient and not thrown away (I like to use gift bags, which people do not tear open – easier to recycle).
• Buy local and buy gift certificates to save energy used in shipping (and shipping costs!).
• Get a locally grown tree that can be replanted after the holiday (IFAS suggests palms, citrus, and cedars – I am thinking I’d love a calamondin, the fruit of which I’ve also used to make wonderful bread for holiday gifts).
• Create cards from recycled paper or send cards by email.
• Make your own gifts or regift to save money and materials. 

Now that you’ve saved on energy, you might be interested in additional ways to keep holiday spending under control. You can find strategies for budgeting here from the Pinellas County Extension. 

Don’t forget to visit the Florida Botanical Gardens’ wonderful and sustainable holiday light display in the gardens from November 29 to January 1 (find more information here), and enjoy the season! 

Sources: 

• “Reducing Home Heating Costs,” IFAS
• “Green Holidays,” IFAS