During the Kill-a-Watt Challenge, the greatest reductions in energy use came from sensible use of air conditioning and lights.
Nevertheless, many contestants came up with innovative and even unique solutions in their quest to cut their consumption.
Large windows can mean great views, but they can also mean soaring room temperatures. Renter Grant Rutherford hung thick tapestries over his windows to create a decorative insulation. Kelly Lemmon and David Crowell tinted their windows, replaced the weather stripping on their doors, and hung vintage, rubber-backed curtains. The creative pair was so thorough that, when they replaced their regular bulbs with compact fluorescent lights, they even changed the bulb in the fridge. Realizing that air conditioners are not the only climate-control tool, homeowner Richard Helpard used a pair of dehumidifiers to suck the moisture out of the air – the drier air was easier to keep cool.
Among commercial customers, gains came from changing the details of business as usual. Highland Mall, which normally ran its escalators from the moment it opened its outer doors to the end of the day, ran them only when the stores were open. And, proving that there’s more to University of Texas fraternity life than partying, the Delta Sigma Phi house had 15 refrigerators; the students measured the power usage of each one and disconnected the most wasteful. By making the most of the appliances they had, they cut down on the number they needed, which can be made true for other kitchen equipment. Waiting until the dishwasher is full before running a load, or washing by hand, also saves energy. The Roz-Mina Montessori preschool proved that education is the best way to conservation. They taught their students all the basic skills of energy conservation, instilling good habits in the next generation of electricity consumers.
This article appears in November 16 • 2007.
