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As summer or winter months approach every year, the same energy and money saving tips are repeated: Thermostat control, windows and doors checked for holes and plugged, attics insulated better to prevent energy leaks, reduced water heater temperature and replacing all lights with low-energy bulbs. In the heat of summer, fans or swamp coolers should be used more than the A/C; and by all means, turn off those lights left burning in an empty room.

There are many simple ways to conserve energy and save money in your home. However, have you ever heard about the energy wasting power of parasitic electronics?

If you leave your computer on all day and you believe that when you turn something "off" it no longer uses energy, then you don't understand parasitic electronics. Many household electronics continue to cost us money even when in the off position. This is the premise of parasitic electronics, and you will be amazed at how many of them you have in your home.

Digital electronics is a perfect example. The purpose of the bulky power pack that comes with these devices is to convert the AC electricity that comes directly out of the wall into DC electricity, which is needed to power the digital electronics.

How can you eliminate r electronics power waste? Think surge protectors (power strips)! After powering down all of your electronics for the night, turn off the surge protectors. But, do not stop there. Unplug electronics in the kitchen and bathrooms. Anything that uses a power pack, unplug it. One of the highest energy using electronic devices is a cell phone charger. When not in use, unplug it. Families, who made a habit of performing these tasks, have saved at least $50 per month on their electric bills.

A few more simple energy saving tips from power companies include:

Do not turn your air conditioning off in the hot months when you're not at home. Your house will store up the heat, and the air conditioning will run for hours catching up in order to feel comfortable.

Use your dishwasher, washer and dryer, and stove as late in the evening as possible.

Make sure food is cool and covered before placing into the refrigerator.

If your A/C unit is on the ground, keep the area around it clean and free of obstructions to maintain air flow.

Install a hot water heater blanket, but be careful not to cover vents or temperature settings.

Plant a tree or shrubs as insulation and shading on the south and west sides of your home.

Everyone wants to save money, while at the same time, helping our environment. Retraining ourselves to new habits can make a big difference conserving energy. If you have kids, they will think they are green power hip when helping to follow these simple energy and money saving tips for your home.

Learn more about this author, Diane Quinn .
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