Upgrade your thermostat

Programmable thermostats are one of the easiest and cheapest ways to save money. Have one installed and program it to cool or heat the house 30 to 60 minutes before the first family member wakes up. During the day, set the unit 7 or 8 degrees higher or lower than you normally do and have it set to heat/heat the house right before you get home.

Check for leaks.

Check for windows and air duct leaks intermittently through which cold or warm air can escape. Leaks force your air conditioner or heater to work harder which translates into higher energy costs. Having your house correctly insulated means you’re able to save as much as 10% on your power bills.

Unplug appliances.

Did you know any appliance that is plugged in is using energy even if the appliance is turned off? Appliances that also have clocks are an additional drain. Standby lights, like those on your TV, are also draining energy, so unplug as many appliances as you can when not in use.

New light bulb technology.

Compact fluorescent light bulbs need 75% less energy and last 10 times lengthier compared to standard incandescent light bulbs. While compact fluorescents do cost more up front, they savings they supply long term are worth the first investment. You may also be saving time and making less waste by changing your light bulbs more infrequently.

Shop “green.”

Look for the Energy Star label when shopping for new appliances. Energy Star is a joint program between the US EPA and Department of Energy that identifies and labels energy-efficient appliances. Currently appliances in 44 products categories have been identified and labeled.