Unplug appliances when not in use. - file

Don't forget the basics. This simple stuff will save energy — and money — right now.

1. Unplug

Unplug seldom-used appliances, like an extra lamp in a room you rarely use

Unplug your chargers when you're not charging. Every house in Jamaica is full of little plastic power supplies to charge cellphones and other personal gadgets. Keep them unplugged until you need them

Use power strips to switch off televisions and stereos when you're not using them. Even when you think these products are off, together, their "standby" consumption can be equivalent to that of a seventy-five or a one hundred watt light bulb running continuously.

2. Set Computers to Sleep

Enable the 'sleep mode' feature on your computer, allowing it to use less power during periods of inactivity. In Windows, the power management settings are found on your control panel. Mac users, look for energy saving settings under system preferences in the apple menu.

Configure your computer to 'hibernate' automatically after 30 minutes or so of inactivity. The 'hibernate mode' turns the computer off in a way that doesn't require you to reload everything when you switch it back on. Allowing your computer to hibernate saves energy and is more time-efficient than shutting down and restarting your computer from scratch.

3. Use Appliances Efficiently

Set your refrigerator temperature at thirty-eight to forty-two degrees Fahrenheit; your freezer should be set between zero and five degrees Fahrenheit. Use the power-save switch if your fridge has one, and make sure the door seals tightly. You can check this by making sure that a dollar bill closed in between the door gaskets is difficult to pull out. If it slides easily between the gaskets, replace them.

In your clothes washer, set the appropriate water level for the size of the load;

4. Turn Off the Lights

Don't forget to flick the switch when you leave a room.

Remember this at the office, too. Turn out or dim the lights in unused conference rooms, and when you step out for lunch. Work by daylight when possible. A typical commercial building uses more energy for lighting than anything else.

Question of the Day

What can Jamaica do to reduce its dependence on petroleum?

Please email answers to mias@uwimona.edu.jm

The most creative solution will be printed in next week's page. Please keep answers below 250 words.