Ways to save energy

There are so many ways to save energy, that we decided to list some to help homeowners cut down on their energy consumption this year. If you want to save energy, you have to change more than a few things around your home...you need to change your mentality.

Think of saving energy as saving money. You are doing more than reducing your electrical usage..you are saving money. Here are ten pratical ways to save on your energy bills this year:

Change or clean your filter once a month - Dirt and dust can break your furnace and make it less efficient.

Install a programmable thermostat - you can lower your heating bill by upwards of 10% just by programming the thermostat back ten degrees every night.

Install more attic insulation - This should be the first step in saving energy. You can decrease your energy bills by installing more insulation.

photo by electrosoul

Seal up your home before winter - Walking the house with a caulk gun and weatherstripping should be a Fall must. Ensuring that your home is well sealed will save oodles on your electric bills.

Use thick curtains - If you have older windows, or you notice a draft in the winter, use think curtains to hold the cold air back. This makes a huge, noticeable difference in the comfort level around drafty areas.

Take showers instead of baths - You waste many more gallons of water in running a bath than by running showers.

Don't run the dishwasher unless you have a full load - It seems like a such a small way to save energy, but it adds up quickly.

Switch from light bulbs to CFC bulbs - Buying compact flourescent light bulbs will save energy, and they are built to last for years longer than regular bulbs.

Install light dimmers - This is a great way to cut down on the amount of electricity used.

Unplug devices from electrical outlets - Some devices can still draw power even if they are turned off.

If you want to save energy, you have to get educated. Read up on energy savings here.