Ag Secretary Offers Tips to Boost Efficiency, Reduce Costs on Farm

Ag Secretary Offers Tips to Boost Efficiency, Reduce Costs on Farm

 

HARRISBURG -- Farmers should consider taking steps to improve the energy-efficiency of their farms to help reduce the impact of rising energy and fuel costs, according to Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture Dennis Wolff.

 

“The day-to-day costs of running a farm can make or break a business,” said Secretary Wolff. “Many farmers are struggling to keep pace with the increasing cost of fuel and energy. By taking steps to make operations more energy efficient, farmers can reap considerable long-term savings.”

 

Lighting and appliances are two key areas of concern. Farmers can cut back on lighting costs in barns, milking parlors, machine shops or poultry houses by using fluorescent lighting instead of standard incandescent lamps. By purchasing energy-efficient appliances such as motors, fans and pumps, farmers can potentially reduce their energy expenses by 20-30 percent.

 

“Like many investments, the initial cost may be slightly higher – but the long-term savings can be significant,” said Secretary Wolff.

 

Farmers can decrease fuel usage by properly maintaining and operating tractors and other power equipment in the following ways: Keep fuel systems clean by replacing fuel filters regularly; Service air cleaners to enhance air flow for fuel combustion; Clean fuel injectors for efficient combustion of fuel; Use correct viscosity of oil for proper lubrication; Operate tractors in higher speed gears, using lower throttle settings to conserve fuel; Use proper ballast or weight to avoid excessive wheel slip and increased fuel use; Check tire pressures frequently as worn tires increase fuel consumption; Keep all ground-engaging tools sharp to increase efficiency; Shut off diesel engines, no idling; Consider conservation tillage to avoid excess tractor passes; and Consider using biodiesel fuel to decrease emissions.

 

“Farmers’ bottom lines will benefit by adopting these practices,” said Secretary Wolff. “Also, when we reduce energy consumption, we improve the quality of our environment.” For more information about how to increase your farm’s energy efficiency, contact Dr. Dennis Buffington in the Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering at Penn State University at 814-865-2971 or dbuffington@psu.edu.