by J. Lang Wood

Created on: June 09, 2009   Last Updated: November 28, 2009

Now more than ever, homeowners need to find ways to save money around the house. With a little care to a few details, you can save hundreds of dollars each year. Here are 10 ways to start reducing costs today:

1. Check Your Insulation

Insulation around windows and doors can prevent the waste of hundreds of energy dollars each year. Make sure all cracks around these areas are caulked, and that adequate insulation is in attic and basement areas.

2. Program Your Thermostat

A programmable thermostat can be set for lower temperatures when the house is empty during the day and warmer temperatures right before you arrive home. It's a great way to conserve energy and save money.

3. Use Your Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans aren't just for cooling in summer. They can be set clockwise to draw warm air that rises to the ceiling back down to living level, using the energy more efficiently.

4. Wash Laundry in Cold Water

Today's detergents are designed to work well in cold water or hot. If you do your laundry in cold water, your clothes will still be clean, and you will save money.

5. Always Do a Full Load

Either in your washing machine or your dishwasher, run it only when you have a full load. This conserves both water and energy and saves money.

6. Air Dry Instead of Using a Dryer

Dry your laundry outdoors instead of using energy. Sunshine has always been a good disinfectant and a great deodorizer. Line-drying your clothing will save hundreds of dollars over a year.

7. Insulate Your Water Heater

If your water heater sits in a cold area of your home, purchase a water heater insulation blanket to keep it from working harder. This will make a big difference in your energy bill.

8. Use Your Microwave Instead of the Oven

You can save many energy dollars by using the quick-cooking energy of your microwave instead of an ordinary range oven. It just takes a little retraining to learn to use your microwave for most of your cooking. This also keeps you from heating up your kitchen in summer, making your air conditioner work overtime.

9. Keep Heating and Cooling in Optimum Range

Recommended settings are 68 degrees for winter and 78 degrees for summer. Families can easily adjust to these temperatures with a little practice, and it saves lots of energy dollars

10. Close Off Doors & Vents in Unused Areas

If you're not using a room or area of the home, there's no reason to heat or cool it. Close doors and vents in these areas and save money on energy costs. You can save up to 20% on your heating and cooling bill.

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