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Step 1
Lighting:
Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs. You will save 75% of your lighting costs by just doing this! Open all blinds, shades, and curtains to let in as much light as possible. Whenever you leave a room, shut the light. Even if you walk out for a few minutes. If you have dimmer lights keep them at a lower level. Even a slightly lower level will save money. For outdoors, get a motion activated light so it won't be in use when not needed but still supply security if someone walks by your home. If you are sitting at a computer try a smaller wattage desk lamp instead of lighting the whole room. -
Step 2
Insulation:
Buy a weather stripping kit. These are just a few dollars but will save you money by blocking cracks around doors and windows. A properly installed storm door (outer door) insulates great! If you have an attic make sure it is insulated. Keep furniture from blocking air of vents and make sure curtains aren't covering vents or radiators. -
Step 3
Water:
Turn down your electric water heater to 120 degrees. Get a water heater blanket/jacket and put it on your water heater. This will save you 20 to 30 % off your water heating bills. You can get these at Ace hardware, Home Depot, Lowes and stores like walmart. Replace shower nozzles and faucets with low-flow faucets and shower heads! Be sure to fix any leaks in faucets and toilet. -
Step 4
Computer:
Put your desktop and laptop computer in sleep mode when stepping away. When going to sleep for the night or leaving your home power down your computer AND unplug it. Even though off, it uses a small amount of electricity while plugged in. -
Step 5
Thermostat:
A timer can be added to your thermostat to turn it on to your desired air temperature at certain times.So it can turn on an hour before you come home from work and it doesn't have to be on all day. Lower it at night. Try to live with it being a little warmer in summer and a little cooler in winter. Wear a light sweater and lower it. When going to sleep get a room heater for your bedroom and turn your thermostat very low. -
Step 6
Airflow:
Ceiling fans are not very expensive and make you feel cooler in the summer. turn them on in reverse and your rooms will feel warmer.
Comments
nanamusicgirl said
on 11/8/2009 This is great! Thanks for bringing this out one by one. Good details. 5 stars. Recommended you!