Saving Money On Energy

Save Energy Save Money Around The House

Saving money on energy in your home can help to offset the rising costs of entertainment, clothing, food, utilities, heating and cooling.

The money saved can be spent elsewhere on the important things you need.

Here are five areas where you can save energy money at home that you can implement today.

Save On Lighting Costs

Make the change to energy efficient light bulbs (CFLs). While the newer fluorescent light bulbs might be more expensive to purchase, they can save you lots of money in the long run because they last much longer and don't emit as much heat as traditional incandescent bulbs.

Energy Star bulbs use over 70% less energy than standard bulbs. Since lighting accounts for around 20% of the home's electric bill, switching to CFLs offers the easiest way to go green and save money.

In areas of the home where light for reading is not required, replace light fixture bulbs with bulbs of lower wattage. Enjoy romantic candlelight dinners in the dining room. Replace dark curtains and blinds with window treatments that permit natural light to brighten the room during the day.

Save On Appliance Operating Costs

Replace older, inefficient appliances with new Energy Star products. Unplug appliances when not in use, as many have standby modes that consume valuable energy.

Set your refrigerator to the temperature recommended in the manual, and set it to energy saver mode, if applicable.

Wait until you have a full load before using your washing machine, and set it for use with cold water.

Use the energy-saving setting on your dishwasher, and use it only when you have a full load of dishes to wash.

Whenever possible, use the microwave oven instead of the stove. In the summer months, this will avoid needlessly heating up the kitchen.

Save On Summer Cooling Costs

Clean your air conditioner filter regularly so your air conditioner will operate more efficiently, requiring less energy.

Set your air conditioner to energy saver mode, providing it has that feature.

Consider replacing your air conditioner with Energy Star ceiling fans. Experts claim ceiling fans are up to 50% more energy efficient than conventional fan units, and they are better at circulating air throughout the room, making a warm room feel more comfortable.

Save Energy Save Money In Winter

Winterizing the home is always your best investment, and it can save heating costs over the long term. Seal all cracks around doors and windows to prevent cold drafts and heat loss. Check for drafts around baseboards and ceiling fixtures that might contribute to heat loss. Make sure your basement has proper wall insulation and see that your attic insulation conforms to current building standards for your area.

More Tips For Saving Money On Energy

Get into the habit of turning off the lights whenever you leave any room in your home. Lighting costs can account for up to 20% of your electricity bill over time.

Turn off your computer and TV when not in use. Don't allow your computer to remain in sleep mode using about 15 watts of power unnecessarily. If your computer, printer, and USB hub are connected to a power bar, always shut off the power bar before leaving the house or before going to bed to save energy.

If you have cable TV and use the remote to shut off the cable and TV, always check by clicking on your remote's TV button to make sure the TV set is really off.

Consider switching from baths to showers for saving money on energy. Showering requires less water at a lower temperature than baths. You can also save money by installing a special shower head that limits the water flow.

TOP of Saving Money On Energy
RETURN to Money Saving Tips
HOME to Help With Debt