over the last few years:

CFLs everywhere possible.
sealed up window and door edges.
drive a honda insight instead of a jeep grand wagoneer.
lower indoor temp in winter and higher in summer.
front-loading washer.

on the other hand, i am now using a tube-powered stereo. but it sounds great!

2000 Honda Insight. Kenwood MP3 head unit, Blaupunkt door speakers, dual Cobalt amps, 3 MTX stealth subs, 4th very-high-mounted brake light, Sumitomo tires, yellow-top, hot induction air mod, tinted, SG2, MIMA, center armrest.


best tank 82 mpg

On this end....

- CFLs everywhere possible, other lights are on dimmer switches.
- Programmable Thermostat. Winter heat is set for 62 degrees and summer cooling set for 77 degrees. Our electric/gas bill is half of my neighbors and we have the exact same house.
- Water heater is set on the lowest setting with a thermal blanket.
- Solar power attic fan.
- Solar power bird bath fountain (does not save energy but looks really cool in the garden and the birds love it.)

I looked into going competely solar for my home but the ROI (Return on Investment) is not doable in Maryland. A $31,000 system for my house would only return a $2000 credit from the Federal Governement and $3000 from Maryland. And with a projected savings of less than $1000 a year - it would take close to 30 years to breakeven.

States like New York & Delaware give grants up to half of the cost of the solar installation. If I lived in NY a $31,000 system would only cost $13,500 and cut my breakeven cost to 15 years - doable.

Go Green is great but it should not cost you an unbalanced amount to go Green.