Energy Saving Tips for Your Dorm Room

Ah, the glory days of college.

Have an incredible Orientation weekend, get your half of the room all decorated and ‘homey’ and never have to worry about another meal since they are made for you in the Dining Hall.

However, just because you pay college tuition and room and board, don’t think you shouldn’t worry about conserving energy. The more students are able to be conscious of their energy use, the less money the college pays to the local utility and more money that can be spent on student activities or other campus perks.

Here are some easy ways to go green in your dorm room:

• Plug your computer system or stereo into a power strip and turn off the strip when you leave the room or go to sleep.
• For that study lamp, use a compact fluorescent light bulbs.
• Wash only full loads of laundry (but don’t overstuff the washer or dryer either).
• Set your computer to go to sleep after 10 minutes of in activity. Screensavers do not save energy - but sleep mode does.
• Report any leaks, drips, or maintenance issues to your facility manager.
• Nothing like early attic or hand-me-down furniture to help stock up your room. It creates a unique living environment while avoiding purchasing new goods.
• Purchase ENERGY STAR appliances (fridges, microwaves, computers).
• Use a laptop rather than a PC, it uses much less energy.

Why not encourage your Student Government Association to take a ‘green’ pledge for the academic year or encourage faculty and staff to support environmental initiatives like we mentioned back in May.