The 1970s oil crisis remains a defining moment in history, with skyrocketing energy prices forcing families to rethink their consumption habits. Today, with rising energy costs once again making headlines, many are looking back for inspiration on how to save energy and cut costs. In this post, we’ll explore practical lessons from that era and how you can apply them to your own home today.
1. Carpooling: Sharing Rides to Save on Gas
During the 1970s energy crisis, gas prices surged, and long lines at gas stations became the norm. To manage this, many families turned to carpooling to reduce fuel consumption.
Today’s Tip: Carpooling still works as a great way to cut down on your car’s fuel usage. If you can, try to share rides with neighbors, coworkers, or friends. Apps like Lyft and Uber also offer carpooling options, which can help reduce individual costs.
2. Driving Less: Combining Errands to Minimize Gas Usage
With limited access to gas, families in the 1970s began consolidating errands to avoid unnecessary trips.
Today’s Tip: Plan your trips in advance to combine errands and reduce the number of times you need to drive. By organizing your day and taking a few minutes to map out the most efficient routes, you can cut down on gas usage and save money.
3. Using Energy-Efficient Appliances
The 1970s saw a rise in energy-efficient appliances as people sought to conserve both electricity and natural gas.
Today’s Tip: Invest in energy-efficient appliances that are rated with the Energy Star label. Although the upfront cost may be higher, these appliances save you money over time by reducing your energy bills. Consider upgrading your furnace, water heater, and refrigerator for maximum savings.
4. Switching to LED Lighting
In the 1970s, households began using lower-wattage light bulbs to conserve electricity.
Today’s Tip: Make the switch to LED light bulbs, which use up to 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. They’re longer-lasting, so you’ll save on replacement costs as well.
5. Sealing Drafts and Insulating Homes
To combat rising energy prices, families during the 1970s started weatherizing their homes by sealing drafts and adding insulation.
Today’s Tip: Keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer by insulating windows and doors. Use weather stripping, caulk, and draft stoppers to prevent heat from escaping. These simple steps can drastically reduce heating and cooling costs, which is especially important as energy prices continue to climb.
6. Turning Down the Thermostat
During the 1970s, many families started lowering the temperature in their homes during the winter months to save on heating bills.
Today’s Tip: In the winter, set your thermostat a few degrees lower and wear warm clothing or blankets to stay comfortable. In the summer, raise the thermostat a few degrees to save on air conditioning costs. Programmable thermostats can also help automate the process, ensuring you’re not heating or cooling your home when you’re not there.
7. Embracing Public Transportation
As gas prices soared, people in the 1970s turned to public transportation as an affordable alternative to driving.
Today’s Tip: If possible, take advantage of local public transportation options, such as buses, trains, or subways, to reduce your reliance on personal vehicles. Many cities have expanded transit systems, making it easier than ever to leave the car at home.
8. Conserving Water to Save on Energy Bills
Water heating accounts for a significant portion of energy bills, and during the 1970s, people began using less hot water to reduce their energy consumption.
Today’s Tip: Take shorter showers and use cold or lukewarm water for laundry to save on energy bills. Install low-flow showerheads and faucets to further reduce water usage and energy costs.
9. Alternative Energy Solutions: Solar and Wind Power
While not as widespread in the 1970s, there was growing interest in alternative energy sources during the oil crisis. Some families experimented with solar panels and small wind turbines.
Today’s Tip: Consider investing in solar panels or wind energy solutions for your home. While it can be expensive initially, these alternatives can dramatically reduce your energy bills over time. Many states offer incentives for homeowners who adopt renewable energy, making it a more affordable option.
10. Maintaining Cars for Better Fuel Efficiency
During the 1970s, people paid more attention to their cars’ maintenance to ensure they were getting the best possible fuel efficiency.
Today’s Tip: Keep your car in tip-top shape to maximize gas mileage. Regular maintenance, such as changing the oil, checking tire pressure, and replacing air filters, can improve fuel efficiency and save you money at the pump.
Conclusion: Lessons from the 1970s Oil Crisis for Modern-Day Savings
The frugal strategies from the 1970s oil crisis may have originated out of necessity, but many of them are still incredibly relevant today. Whether you’re carpooling, investing in energy-efficient appliances, or making small changes to your daily habits, these tips can help you reduce your energy usage and save money.
As energy prices continue to rise, looking back at the resourcefulness of past generations can provide practical solutions to help you navigate the challenges of today. Find more Frugal Tips on my YouTube channel.
Looking for even more old-fashioned money-saving wisdom? Check out my post on frugal lessons from the pioneer days and discover timeless tips for stretching every dollar!
