8/7/12

Do you know how your energy supplier creates and generates electricity? Many consumers can now choose their own energy supplier, which means you can use renewable options like solar, wind and geothermal. The Natural Resources Defense Council makes it easy to find out how with their Green-e Pick Your Power website, which has a state-by-state guide to green energy options. Sometimes it's as simple as checking a box on your electric bill to do the right thing.

8/6/12

If you use your dryer regularly, do these two things to cut down on energy costs. First, clean the lint filter in the dryer after each use; a dirty filter will force the dryer to work harder and is a fire hazard. Second, dry heavier items -- like blankets, towels and jeans -- separately from lighter items that dry quicker; most dryers have a moisture sensor setting that can default if there is even one wet item still inside.

8/5/12

When shopping for new kitchen utensils or cookware, look for items made from 100 percent recycled steel. One benefit of using recycled metal is a major reduction in greenhouse gases and energy use because it uses less energy to recycle the metal than to make metal from virgin ore. Recycling one ton of steel conserves 2,500 pounds of iron ore; 1,400 pounds of coal; and 120 pounds of limestone. Recycled steel products have the same durability, wear and strength of nonrecycled. And remember: When it's time to dispose of recycled steel products, toss them in the recycling bin to be made into new products yet again.