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Energy prices have risen sharply. Incomes have not kept up with the price rises. It is common sense to cut down on our use of energy and so reduce our bills. There are ways in which you can save money and conserve energy in your home.

Turn down the thermostat on your central heating by a couple of degrees. You will not notice the difference in heat and it will save money over time. On cold winter days put a jumper or cardigan on instead of turning up the heating.

There are other ways of conserving heat, and thus energy, in your home, but these may require some financial outlay. Ensure that the insulation of your home is up to modern standards. If you have cavity walls consider cavity wall insulation. Replacement of ill-fitting windows and doors or double-glazing will also reduce the amount of heat escaping from your house. If possible, switch off radiators in unused rooms.

There are ways to reduce the amount of electricity you use. Switch off lights in unoccupied rooms. Replace electric light bulbs with low energy lamps. Do not leave electrical items on stand by; switch them off and unplug them from the socket. All those little red stand by lights use an awful lot of electricity when added together.

If you need to replace a washing machine or other white goods, look for those with a low energy rating. In most countries, manufacturers are now required by law to list these on the actual appliances shown in the shops.

When washing laundry, ensure that you have a full load before switching the washing machine on. Use the lowest temperature possible for your load of laundry, modern synthetic fabrics and modern washing powders and liquids mean that very high temperatures are not often necessary. Tumble driers use a great deal of electricity and sunshine and wind is free, so it makes sense to dry your laundry outside whenever you can.

In the kitchen too, one can reduce energy use. When you use the oven, fill it up. If you are making a casserole make double or triple the quantity and freeze what you do not need for that day's meal. Consider buying a slow cooker, they are excellent for casseroles, stews, soups and many other dishes and use very little electricity. If you use an electric kettle or coffee maker, only use enough water for the number of cups of tea or coffee that you need.

You can conserve energy and save money in your home in many more ways. Challenge the family to think of more, it could be fun and profitable. You can feel good about reducing your bills and be saving the planet at the same time. What a great prospect!

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