How to Conserve Energy at Home

Heating bills are soaring to record highs this year, and many people are terrified they won't be able to sustain their heating costs. The good news is there are easy ways to save energy and save money by doing so. Read on for an easy guide to saving energy in your house or apartment.

Instructions

1. Unplug. Some appliances still gather energy while they are plugged in, even if they aren't charging anything. Computer cables are the biggest culprits. Unplug all appliances while not in use.

2. Turn down the fridge. Just like you know over heating or over cooling your home can be costly, keep it in mind for your refrigerator as well. If your setting is above 37 degrees (stick a thermometer in there to check it out), then you're over cooling and risk spoiling your produce due to freezing.

3. Shut off rooms. If you have a child at college or a guest bedroom not in use, shut off the heating units in that room and shut the door securely.

4. Bundle up. It seems obvious, but get in the habit of wearing a sweatshirt around the house, or treat yourself to a cushy couch blanket. Especially if you live on your own, this can often be more effective at warming you up and doesn't leave you with a bill.

5. Shut off lights. Your mother wasn't kidding about this; lightbulbs consume a lot of energy and will certainly up your bills when the time comes.

6. Run the dishwasher. Washing dishes by hand uses more water (generally hot water) than running dishes through a dishwasher. This is worth even more if you have an energy-friendly dishwasher.

7. Cook in your home more. Not only is eating out an obvious unnecessary cost when you're looking to reduce your spending, but by cooking in the home you are adding a considerable amount of heat to your home. Really cold? Bake with the kids.

Tips & Warnings

• Be careful not to let your desire to save energy and money override your common sense; if your house is too cold, it becomes an inhospitable living environment.