December 11, 2008 at 10:19am
· Filed under Daily Activities, Automotive
Now that prices are dropping again due to decreased demand and the general global economic slowdown, the incentive for automakers to create and consumers to purchase more fuel efficient cars also drop. However in European states, their high gas taxes keep the demand up even in the face of decreasing fuel costs. How does America get there? By adopting a gas tax as well. But you can’t just all of a sudden add a 100% tax. There would be uproar and it would be bad for our staggering economy as well. Instead, adopt a 1¢ tax increase/month for the next several years. And then raise it to 1.5¢/month, 2¢/month, etc. This would help change the American mindset that we will have cheap oil forever. Of course even now we all want to decrease our dependence on foreign oil and do reduce our carbon footprint. But without a strong financial incentive, we will forever be locked in debate instead of taking quick action. This idea did not come from me of course. I heard it on NPR last night but I can’t seem to find the transcript right now. I think this is a great idea. It doesn’t cause drastic immediate change, but it will encourage people and car companies over the long run to reevaluate their situation and change their long-term plans.
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December 11, 2008 at 10:00am
· Filed under House
Pros
- less water usage
- quieter
- cleaner clothes
- no center agitator = more gentle on clothes
- 2-3x spin cycle = less dryer time = lower utility bill
Cons
- longer cycle time
- must use HE (high-efficiency) detergent
- more periodic maintenance (in order to prevent smells and mold growth)
The department of energy says old top loading washers use up to 40 gallons per load, while energy star rated top loaders use 18-25 and the newest HE washers (front and top loading) use 10-14 gallons per load.
Dryers haven’t changed much at all. The latest have a steam cycle option to reduce wrinkles and “refresh” clothes. But their operating concepts haven’t changed in a while. None have energy star ratings. They should probably give one for clotheshangers.
Some tips include running full loads in washers, avoiding hot water cycle, and leaving the door open after use to prevent odors. I leave the detergent tray open as well. It’s also a good idea to wipe down the inside of the door window for hair so that it doesn’t eventually get into the door seals.
Oh, and last tip (which is yet to be has been personally confirmed):
LG Washers: To set a SPIN ONLY cycle, power on, press spin speed button to select speed, and push play to start.
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