[lrjohnson]

Tightwad Kitty:
We could modify some habits, but I don't think that would make a dent. We only ever have one TV on at a time, and only if someones watching. We dry 1-3 loads a week, drying til just one only, and doing an extra spin to get water out. On appliance usage sites electric washer and dryer at FIVE loads a week is 107-double that (even though it's already more because of the five loads) for inefficiency and you've got 16% of our usage. Same with computers-if I QUADRUPLE normal usage, it would account for 12%. So yeah, I could turn of the computers when not in use, but I don't think that's it.

We would never need AC because we are on Coastal Northern california. In the summer when we line dry almost all loads and never run the heater ever, we still hit $150 electric. With all flourescents, turning off lights all the time, few gadgets, I am not seeing what other routines or habits to modify to really contribute. I could unplug everyhting when not in use, but I don't see the blender sucking up all this juice. I've heard that the "always on" in sleep mode guys are the ones that really suck when off, so I could do the computer, TV, DVD/VCR, but I think that I could save along the lines of $12, $20, etc, from looking at various wattage usage sites. Now, I know that's real money-6 to 10 pounds of cheese!-but when we are looking at a $360 bill it really is a fraction.

I can't rewire since it's a rental. And I think that's the main source.