Home Energy Saving Tips - Consume Less Energy

Your first step is to make sure power management has been activated on all your computers. These home energy saving tips will help to conserve energy quite quickly.

For the long term, you should consider if a laptop is appropriate for your next upgrade or purchase, They consume less energy than normal desktop and monitor combinations...

Unplug those appliances when you can, however this is not always possible.

The alternative solution is to purchase a smart power strip. These are useful for many appliances, and ideal for computers and related equipment.

When I can't unplug, I use a smart power strip

During the winter months, open your curtains on windows facing south to naturally let the sun heat your home.

In the evening, close them to retain the maximum heat within your home. This also reduces the cold chill that can appear near windows.

Make sure your curtains are not blocking air vents or radiators.

The opposite should take place during summer by closing curtains, shades or outdoor blinds to avoid overheating your home during the day.

Take showers instead of baths, you'll save time as well.

Lower the thermostat of your hot water heater to 120 F.

Install aerating, low-flow faucets and shower heads within your home.

Ensure your hot water heater is sufficiently insulated using an special water heater blanket.

Repair promptly any faucets/taps that drip or leak.

Wear warmer clothes (sweaters, etc) inside during the winter months.

Adjust your thermostat to a temperature you are still comfortable with.

Lower the thermostat by a few degrees when no one is present at home or at night.

Install a digital programmable thermostat that will allow you to regulate the temperature in your home more efficiently (at night, when away).

Turn on those ceiling fans as well, check the rotation to be sure it forces the heat to stay down.

If you are not using it (spare room), close it and decide not to heat it.

Turn off lights when you leave the room or when daylight lighting is sufficient.

Use compact fluorescent (Energy Star rated) bulbs to replace incandescent bulbs, when they burn out. They use about 25% of normal bulbs and last 10 times longer.

Once you have completed this for indoor lighting, apply this to your outdoor lighting.