There are a number of easy steps we can all take to not only improve our homes but hopefull to improve some of the bills that come with it. Here we will go through some tips on making our homes more energy efficient, safer and if there is anything fun out there we think you should know about we just throw that in here too. Many of the steps here may seem minor but if enough of us make enough minor changes we are on our way to a big difference!

There are several simple steps we can all consider making a habit:

Electronics

  •  Look for energy-saving ENERGY STAR labeled home electronics.
  • Many appliances continue to draw a small amount of power when they are switched off. These "phantom" loads occur in most appliances that use electricity, such as VCRs, televisions, stereos, computers, and kitchen appliances. These phantom loads can be avoided by unplugging the appliance or using a power strip and using the switch on the power strip to cut all power to the appliance.
  • Unplug battery chargers when the batteries are fully charged or the chargers are not in use.
  • Studies have shown that using rechargeable batteries for products like cordless phones and PDAs is more cost effective than throwaway batteries. If you must use throaways, check with your trash removal company about safe disposal options.

Heating and Cooling

  • Set your thermostat as low as is comfortable in the winter and as high as is comfortable in the summer.
  • Do not fluctuate the heat too much it takes more energy to cool and heat rather than to maintain so it may seem energy conscious to turn off the air when you leave but you may be doing more harm than good.
  • During the heating season, keep the curtains and shades on your south-facing windows open during the day to allow the sunlight to enter your home and closed at night to reduce the chill you may feel from cold windows.
  • During the cooling season, keep the window coverings closed during the day to prevent solar gain.

Lighting

  • Use linear fluorescent tubes and energy efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) in fixtures throughout your home to provide high-quality and high-efficiency lighting. Fluorescent lamps are much more efficient than incandescent (standard) bulbs and last about 6 to 12 times longer.
  • Switch off your lights when you are not in the room