by C.S.Alexis

Created on: June 06, 2008   Last Updated: June 11, 2008

Here are a few things that anyone can do to cut energy costs and create savings at home. I have tried all of these suggestions and know that they will lower your energy consumption without costing you anything more than the effort it takes to implement these ideas. Give them all a try and prove to yourself that conserving energy is a relatively simple thing to do.

Start by going through your home and unplugging those electrical plugs that are attached to things you do not use on an everyday basis. I found about 11 plugs in my home when I did this. I also unplugged the things that I can easily plug in when I need to use the equipment such as hair dryers and toasters. I do not understand how it works but it cut my electrical usage by about 2% for one month. We have also tried to keep this as a habit and disconnect plugs when we are finished using all items that do not require a convenience status. You do not want to unplug a lamp that is controlled by a switch that you use on an everyday basis, but your electric shaver does not have to stay plugged in all the time either.

Pay attention to how your windows affect the temperature in your home. Take note of existing radiant heat that can be utilized in winter and avoided during warmer weather. The simplicity of opening and closing blinds, curtains and other window coverings can drastically alter your energy usage. All you have to do is pay attention to the way your home responds and act accordingly. You will save on energy by making a habit of working your window treatments along with the weather conditions in your area.

Cook, clean, do laundry and other chores in your home according to outside weather conditions as well. You will be less likely to crank up the heat on a cold winter day if you have been baking a cake in the kitchen. The same is true for dropping the air conditioning down to a lower setting because you got pretty hot when you mopped the floor while it was 95 degrees outside. Take care and consideration in working around the house and employ a little common sense to your efforts. This will help you save also. I have a habit of putting on a large pot of soup when it is very cold outside. The cooking process warms the house, the soup warms the body and by the time we go to bed it has cooled off enough to sleep very comfortable.

It does not take much to conserve energy. Habits that are practiced in your home by all family members can help keep energy usage down. You can also try other things such as more efficient appliances and light bulbs, but you do not have to rush out and spend money to become more conservative. The most important thing to do is pat attention to what you have, what you use and be wise about your ways. Anyone can save energy by using good simple habits.

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