Turn on your windows computer power save option. To do this, go to the control panel, select “Power Options”, make sure the power scheme is set to “Minimal Power Management.”. Then, select a time for the monitor to power down. 15 minutes is a good choice. Next, select a time for the computer to go into standby mode. 20 minutes is good. Finally, click on the tab labeled “Hibernate” and place a check in the box to select “Enable Hibernation”. Then click OK.

2. Replace your incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs).

CFLs use about ¼ of the energy of an incandescent bulb. To replace an existing 90, 95 &100 Watt bulb, use a 23 Watt CFL. For existing 60, 65 & 75 Watt bulbs, use a 15 Watt CFL.

3. Install a programmable thermostat compatible with your heating & cooling system.

Set it to a lower heat setting when no one is home and during sleeping hours. Set your air conditioning temperature no lower than 78 degrees and run only when someone is home.

4. Use ceiling fans instead of your A/C system.

5. Wash only full loads of laundry and use cold water for all.

There are now many brands of laundry detergent that are made for cold water use only.

6. Wash only full loads of dishes in the dishwasher.

Air-dry your dishes rather than using the heated drying cycle.

7. Take showers instead of baths.

The amount of water used and heated is significantly less for a shower.

8. Insulate your water pipes.

Install pipe insulation on all pipes that run through unconditioned spaces such as attics & crawlspaces. Don’t forget to insulate the pipes on your hot water heater too!

9. Replace the air filters of your heating/cooling system.

Clean air filters help to maximize the efficiency of your furnace and air conditioner. Make sure that furniture and other objects are not blocking the airflow through your registers.

10. Install weather stripping around your doors and windows.

This will prevent drafts and air leakage.

11. Use timers on lighting fixtures.

For both, indoor and outdoor fixtures, timers or sensors are a great way to save energy. Use them on lights and fountains all around your home.

12. Seal any heating & cooling ducts that are leaking air.

The use of foil tape or mastic is your best choice. Do not use “duct tape” as it does not adequately seal the joints and has a short lifespan.

13. Water heater insulation wrap/blanket

If your water heater is in the garage or an outside enclosure, the installation of an insulated wrap will help lower the cost of heating your water.

14. Consider replacing appliances that are over 10 years old.

Refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers, clothes dryers, washing machines, and window air conditioner units that are more than 10 years old consume a lot more electricity than newer, Energy-Star rated appliances.

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