Think globally, take care of yourself
My electricity consumption is down 9% from last year. The only thing I've changed is to replace a power-hungry CRT with a higher-resolution LCD. If I'd known 9% of my electricity was going to the tube, I would probably have replaced it sooner!
I'm also experimenting with better ways to insulate windows. I'm not completely done with the first room (still working out design details), but things look very positive. It already takes more than 12 hours for the temperature to fall from 65 to 55; doing all the windows might increase this time considerably and seriously reduce the flow of cold air off the glass. Comfort level is up with only one and a half windows covered in one room.
I'll have to compare heat demand vs. degree-days later, but this could be substantial. The materials are inexpensive, and the construction methods are very basic. What would happen if everyone cut their heat requirements by 10% or more, just because they wanted to be more comfortable and spend less?
Think globally, take care of your own business.
¶ 12/20/2005 11:58:00 PM
The tube strained my UPS; the LCD doesn't faze it a bit. And the screen-saver power seems to be very small.
BBB, in addition to having your entertainment goodies on a power strip, make sure your rechargers are also turned off when not in use. Some of them can draw alot.
I have removable solid insulation in our basement sliding glass doors. Without it, the basement would be unlivably cold. We also have our wood fireplace stuffed with foam. Since we don't use it and our couch is in front of it, I might put more solid insulation in the front glass.
I need to get a Kill-a-Watt; it sounds like a good product, and a cool toy!
My window insulation is a roaring success. I've only finished work on one room's worth and the effect is amazing; the place used to stay about 20° above the outdoor temperature and this has risen to about 28°. I've got parts made to do the window in the computer room and materials for the big window in the living room.
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