How many Minnesotans does it take to screw in an energy efficient light bulb? The answer is just one, and the results are big. Each standard bulb you replace with a compact fluorescent light will keep one ton of CO2 out of the atmosphere and last long enough to save you the cost of purchasing 5 old-fashioned light bulbs. Visit the Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance for information on the annual “Change a Light, Change the World” campaign, which offers an incentive to purchase Energy Star qualified CFLs at a reduced price from local retailers.

Energy Savings
Many homes use twice the energy necessary for heating, and the primary culprit is air leakage through improperly sealed windows, doors, and ducts. Seal leaks with caulking, weather stripping and window insulation kits to keep out the winter winds. Single pane windows may release up to 25% of the heat in a room, but storm windows will add an extra layer of protection. The hot water tank is the second largest energy eater, so set your tank to 120°F and wash clothes in cold water.

For more energy saving ideas, the Minnesota Energy Information Center offers publications with tips from how to fix a leaky washer to how to improve heating efficiency. Download these handy guides at no charge from their Energy Info Center. Give yourself some encouragement and support by joining the Minnesota Energy Challenge, where you can find rebates, connect with others, and ask an expert your toughest questions. Customers of Xcel Energy can take the online Home Energy Analyzer to compare their home to others in our area, or use the Energy Calculators for stand-alone appliances. Great River Energy customers can also find rebates and tips specific to your member co-op — see greatriverenergy.com for more.

If you haven’t calculated your home energy use with the carbon counter, go to carboncounter.org to find out how much CO2 you create and how to offset it.